Braves

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:

1. Escobar 2. Johnson 3. C.Jones 4. Teixeira 5. McCann 6. Francouer 7. B.Jones 8. Blanco 9. Campillo

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 Bedard with a .224/.298/.370(.667 OPS) line. His BB/K rate is 19/53.

Let us hope Bobby Cox keeps hitters like Kelly Johnson and Brian McCann in there tonight even though Bedard is pitching.

By McFann©

June 20, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

Overlord—

Uh…I like Morton better than Glavine at this point—Glavine really hasn’t impressed me this year—and Hampton, well, I’m not expecting much of anything from him, but…why are you asking me?

By L-Town Scrub

June 20, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

how is Clint Sammons doing down in the minors? could he be an option back up Mac, did’nt he get a september look last year?

By Cecil34

June 20, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

I have read the legion of suggestions about trading to get this player, that player, these players, those players over there, while giving up this player, that player, these players, etc.

I want to throw some caution out there on this subject.

First off, we need to be very careful who we give up in a trade. These middle-season rent-a-player trades are scary and can backfire in the long-term.

Tex sorta comes to mind. I like Tex, and over his career has been a producer, but who would have predicted his numbers at this point in the season?

Even if we really didn’t need Salty, or Elvis, etc, I am not so sure about that one.

But my main point is maybe the Braves should let the season play out-at least until latter July- before a trade is concocted for what turns out for no good reason.

Believe me, I know this team has issues at some positions; and I know some are not going to resolve themselves.

I do believe that predictions of Jeff’s demise as a legitimate major league right fielder are premature - yes, he needs work but it is nowhere near time to “throw in the towel” with him.

I really just don’t want to see a trade just to make a trade, with absolutely no assurance that this is going to do anything to get this team in the playoffs.

There are the two obvious camps - those that think the season is basically done for, and those that think a key aquisition here or there is going to suddenly propel the team into playing .613 baseball (to get to 90 wins).

The reality is that McGriff-type impact players are not obtained without some sacrifice, and their production is not always guaranteed.

Even the prodigious production Tex provided last season - was not enough.

I can rattle on, but I will spare y’all.

I just urge caution on trading at this point and hope that Wren won’t give up too much.

Ol’ Cecil urges caution!

By Graham

June 20, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

jbutler

Good point. I agree that he is overused. It seems like there is not much balance when relief pitching is used this year. Our starters are just now able to really go 6+ innings, which put a ton of pressure on the bullpen for the first part of the season. I will admit, though, that they held their own through all of the injuries and replacements and at least kept the Braves from being done completely.

By monty

June 20, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

I say, let Morton,Reyes,and Campillo pitch the rest of the year even if GLavine can come back say in August. Let these guys take their lumps(although no one is hitting them hard so far) and learn to pitch, and going into next year we would have 3 young guns with much more experience under their belt and one slightly older gun in Campillo. Things are still doable in terms of winning the division but they don’t look promising as far as what the team has shown so far.They don’t win much on the road, don’t win the close ones,they don’t rally late and our outfield has no “pop”. If Hampton comes back(don’t hold your breath) you could move Morton(temporarily) back to the pen. He has nasty sinking action on his pitches. But as of right now the SP for next year looks pretty sweet. WE have a couple of servicable relievers we couild use for trade bait to find an outfielder with pop:(Carlyle, Ring, Boyer, Acosta Bennet.)Everyone needs pitching even mediocre pitching.Heck Bobby even thinks we need Ridgeway surely some other club would want a couple of our other relievers. If Bobby isn’t going to play Stockman trade him and get something for him!

By TennesseePaul

June 20, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

Chop-Chop: That’s an interesting point. I’m going back to do a position by position analysis, just because… in the mean time I’ll take that to mean that the 2004 team was more talented than this current team. It also had the same manager. Yet after the same number of games, with a less talented team, the 2008 Braves have a better record. Interesting indeed.

By KC

June 20, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this

Coach (Put up, shut up, do or die): What do you suppose we’d have to give up to get Holiday??

He ain’t comin’ cheap.

A guy like Freel is a very real possibility. And they might be able to add a right-handed pinch hitter with pop, such as Tony Clark in San Diego.

But I don’t think the Braves are ready to give up the farm for Holiday.

I think it’s just going to fall on Tex’s shoulders to have one of his trademark second halves. We simply can’t afford a .274, 23 homer season from him.

Add a piece or two (like Freel), and get a normal second half from Tex… and this offense should be just fine.

But for cryin’ out loud… we’ve GOT TO FIX THE BULLPEN!!!!!!

Gotta add a proven late-inning reliever soon. Gonzo can’t pitch as much as you need your closer to pitch, and we may have some trouble getting to Gonzo.

If we can bolster the pen, I think we’ll have a good chance (provided Bobby isn’t running guys like Ridgway out there when there are better pitchers available).

By matt r

June 20, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

Steve in DC Dunn has .396 OBP (would be 2nd on the Braves), .511 SLG (would be 3rd on the Braves), walks more than 20% of the time, RC27 of 7.29. AJones he is not. In addition to this year and our hole in LF, I am concerned with where our pop is going to come from next year. McCann/Frenchy hitting 4th and 5th is not appetizing, especially the Frenchy part.

By Greg Norton is hitting .225

June 20, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

Do the Mariners realize that

GREG NORTON IS HITTING .225

I bet they’re sorry they let him go!

By Overlord-D-Day

June 20, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

BTW anybody needing help with Firefox 3.0, be glad to help. Including Fasterfox add-on, since there is no update to it yet, but there are ways to fix it without the wait.

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this

It should be noted, Bedard has a 2.95 ERA in his past four starts, and four of the seven earned runs he allowed in that stretch came in one brief start vs. the Angels.

In his other three starts in that stretch, he has a 1.50 ERA with 21 strikeouts and three earned runs in 18 innings.

He has a 2.07 ERA in his past two starts, with 13 strikeouts in 11 innings. That includes one run and two hits in five innings at Boston for no decision.

By Saltywoody

June 20, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

In the spirit of REM and Frenchy-bashing, I present you my tribute to both:

“Losing His Position”

Frenchy is bigger… He’s bigger than you… He’s bigger than Kelly… The lengths that he will go to… To put distance in his pop-flies… Oh no, he’s sucking it up… He weighs too much.

Frenchy in the corner…Frenchy in the spot-light…we’re losing the division…Trying to sneak a single through…but I don’t know if he can do it…Oh man his swing looks rough…Bobby, he’s done enough…How come you’re both laughing?…why can’t you hear the denizens sing?…Why do you have to make us cry?

Every whiffer…every waking hour…he’s…swinging and he’s missing…trying to sneak a single through…but he grounds for out number two…oh no, again Frenchy’s up…whaddya know he popped it up?

Consider this…the hint of the century…Consider this…put Frenchy on the Benchy…What if all these good rookies…go to waste while he takes up the space…I can’t even watch…

How come he and Bobby are laughing?…why can’t they just win some rings?….I think I thought I saw Smoltz cry…

Trouble is this wasn’t a dream…trouble is this wasn’t a dream.

By KC

June 20, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop: Thank you! It was driving me crazy, but the Stockman thing makes perfect sense now.

Coach (Put up, shut up, do or die):

I would say “let’s trade for Josh Hamilton”, but he’d probably get sent down to join Stockman at AAA so Norton could get more playing time.

By McFann©

June 20, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

Overlord Could anybody tell me what are the braves going to do if McCann gets hurt and needs to sit 5 days at home?

Panic.

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 3:55 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. Bill

Huh? So you’re just going to go with the, “If they perk up” even though we’re nearly halfway through the season? Then if they don’t you ship ‘em out at the trade deadline?

Meanwhile you’ve taught who a lesson, exactly? Your team is possibly out of contention in part because of blind faith that two guys will “perk up,” but hey, you’ve shipped ‘em out of here. What does that solve?

You’re trying to win NOW. You don’t hope two guys get turned around, and meanwhile not pursue a remedy in case one or both of them continues doing exactly what they’ve done for half a season — not hit lefties well.

By TennesseePaul

June 20, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this

Coach: If Holliday were available for cheap than yes. He’d be here about long enough to cover LF until Heyward would be ready allowing both Teixeira and Holliday to walk, gaining the Braves all those draft picks… But it’d probably take Heyward to get Holliday, and I’d rather take my chances waiting for Heyward…
It’ll be interesting to see what happens after the dust settles from all the recent firings. Perhaps more players become available.

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

Saltywood, that was cruel, uncalled-for and full of cheap shots.

But it was funny.

By ChopShop

June 20, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this

Seriously? DOB, please tell me the Braves are not really looking at Freel as an option… we’ve already got four non-power-hitting outfielders at the big league level and a bunch in the minors. I’d like to see the Braves trade for a power bat or a young power arm they can control (financially) for several seasons. Preferably both, if possible. The future looks pretty good with Morton, Jurjens, Campillo… and even Jo-Jo is starting to show some of that promise from a few seasons ago. But if we could get one more young arm to take a little pressure off of Hudson at the top of rotation, I really like this team’s “near future.” Just please tell me the Freel thing ain’t so! He’s NOT the piece the Braves are missing.

By ernesto

June 20, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this

The Pen

Boyer - Pretty good, just not for more than one inning. Acosta - Same thing Ridgway - Can fog a mirror Gonzo - Hopefully stellar Bennett - Solid Long relief Buddy - Feel good story that’s dragging on - need to fade to black fast. Ohman Been a nice surprise Ring Solid lefty specialist

So with the exception of Buddy and Ridgway the pen really isn’t that bad. When Soriano comes back, gotta think Ridgway’s going away. Wouldn’t break my heard to see Buddy and Stockman switch places.

We’re really feeling the loss of Moylan though.

By McFann©

June 20, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

Saltywoody—

Clever!

Soto watch:__1-2 with a strikeout.

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this

Overlord, if McCann got hurt and needed to sit five days, the Braves would call up Sammons. He’s not up now because they don’t want Sammons sitting four out of five days at this stage of his career.

(Not saying I agree with the reasoning, just saying that’s a big reason he’s not here now.)

By DHD

June 20, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this

Freel could join Kotsay on the DL. That would really help. I really like Blanco at the top of the lineup. Give him a long look there. Escobar is better in the 2 hole and Kelly is better at the bottom of the lineup.

By ChopShop

June 20, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

Saltywoody “Put Frenchy on the Benchy”… that was hillarious.

By LT-AA Blogger

June 20, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Saltywoody!!!

Nice work- LMAO.

By N8

June 20, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this

DOB

With all the “trade Tex” and “let him walk for the draft picks” talk (along with those wanting to re-sign him), I have a question, relating to the draft.

When a guy is labeled a “type A” free agent, and signs with a new team, the previous team gets two draft picks. From the way I understand it, if the “new” team has a top half (of round one) pick, then the previous team receives a “sandwich/supplemental” pick, AND the new teams 2nd round pick. If the new team has a bottom half of the first round pick, then the previous team gets that first round pick AND the supplemental/sandwich pick.

That seems fair to the “previous” team. But that is NOT really fair to the other teams that pick towards the top of the draft, IMO.

For example. Let’s say for instance the the Padres end up with the #1 over-all pick, by having the worst record. Also meaning that they get the #1 pick in ROUND TWO.

Essentially, they must privately wish that as many of the “Type A” free agents, re-sign with their current teams. Because if those guys don’t change teams that takes away the “sandwich” picks.

In the 2008 draft their were “16 picks” in the supplemental round. Meaning (by my understanding) that those were compensation picks for the free agents that signed elsewhere.

So that means that Tampa Bay (#1 over all pick this year), picked at #47 instead of #31, with their 2nd pick.

Looks to me, as though the “have-not” teams like the Rays that could really use those draft picks are getting punished more than the the teams signing the free agents.

Why use the supplemental round? How about just take away a team’s 1st, 2nd and 3rd round picks if they sign a “Type A” free agent?

If they wanna spend big bucks on the market, it’s gonna cost them more than money.

To make a short point LONG, I don’t care for the “supplemental” round very much.

Also, if MLB allowed for draft picks to be included in trades, that might solve some things too.

In general, one has to say that the NFL has their league under much better control than MLB does.

Just curious if there is a “method behind the madness” that is the MLB draft.

By daniel

June 20, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

Everyone seems to be forgetting that Kotsay, B. Jones, Blanco, and Anderson are all left handed hitters. Freel would provide a right-handed bat that seems to hit lefties well. The other guys (especially Blanco and Anderson) haven’t proven they can hit left-handed pitching well enough to help the offense get over the struggles against LHP.

What the team really needs is for Matt Diaz to come back and hit lefties like he has the past two seasons and for Mark Kotsay to get healthy. We won’t get a ton of homers out of those guys, but I feel like they’ll make the offense work well enough against lefties. Diaz can platoon with Blanco or B. Jones, whoever wins that job to handle RHP.

By Jake C.

June 20, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

Why wasn’t Sal Fasano called up to replace Corky’s dead corpse? He couldn’t do much worse, could he?

By Random

June 20, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

Brought forward from previous blog:

Ambidextrous pitcher Pat Venditte headed to Staten Island Yankees

“Pat Venditte, the ambidextrous pitcher from Creighton whom the Yankees drafted in the 20th round last week and signed, will get a chance to pitch with both arms when he starts his pro career at Class-A Staten Island.

“Venditte, who was also drafted by the Yanks last year in the 45th round but did not sign, was 9-3 with seven saves and a 3.34 ERA for Creighton in 2008. Even though he is a reliever, he led the Missouri Valley Conference with 101 strikeouts in 86-1/3 innings. In his college career, Venditte struck out a batter with both arms in the same game 39 times.

“Venditte uses a six-fingered glove that has two webs and he deftly switches hands depending on whether he’s facing a lefty or righty hitter.”

And here’s a site with a video of the action last night between the SI Yanks and the Brooklyn Cyclones.

By KC

June 20, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

Ernesto: “So with the exception of Buddy and Ridgway the pen really isn’t that bad. When Soriano comes back, gotta think Ridgway’s going away. Wouldn’t break my heard to see Buddy and Stockman switch places. We’re really feeling the loss of Moylan though.”

Agreed.

Back when we had both Bennett and Campillo (not one, but TWO long relievers) in the pen… BC still chose Buddy Carlyle over Stockman.

I think that was the wrong decision, but Carlyle’s been solid this year, so you can’t really beat Bobby up too much on that one.

But the Stockman/Ridgeway thing is one of the most perplexing things I’ve ever seen as sports fan. Period.

Anyway, I agree that this pen isn’t that bad (aside from Ridgway, and maybe Carlyle). But we REALLY need another proven late-inning reliever to nail down the 8th inning, and occasionally the 9th (to avoid asking Gonzo to close on consecutive nights).

By Alan

June 20, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this

Very good points, DOB, as always. Freel would be a nice addition; he is a sparkplug, but in the past he’s shown no durability when he gets the chance to play every day. Therefore, a platoon in CF with Blanco (or in LF with B. Jones when/if Kotsay returns) makes a lot of sense. You’re right, too, about Frenchy. I also like him, and no one can say he doesn’t hustle; he’s just not getting the job done. If the Braves are talking to the Reds, why not include Francoeur in the deal and try to get Arroyo or (even better) Harang? I don’t see the Braves getting Oswalt unless they give up 3 or even 4 top prospects like they did last July for Teixeira, and I wouldn’t do that. Oswalt and Carlos Lee? No way. They’d have to give up the entire left-handed rotation at Rome (or wherever those guys are) plus 2 or 3 position players. I also don’t get Ridgway rather than Stockman, and I still don’t understand why Josh Anderson isn’t in Atlanta. He can play and he can run, and I daresay he’s a more attractive option in RF (especially against righties) than Francoeur at this moment. I believe Anderson would be starting for at least half the teams in the big leagues.

By Coach (Put up, shut up, do or die)

June 20, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this

KC, I just read this:

http://www.denverpost.com/ci_9642237

So, I can take the Matt Holliday thought and throw it under the bus.

By Overlord-D-Day

June 20, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

McFann just interested in your answer, thats why I asked you.

DOB I get the point. Hard decision if you ask me, cause Corky is really hurting this team. I mean, yesterdays game was so close, maybe if Brian was in and got 1 or 2 hits, that translates into a win.

Another thing….. You have to think about this…..what has more value, play everyday in the minors or play once or twice a week and pinch hit say 3 or 4 times a week in the majors?

Id say being in the majors, even if you are not playing everyday is better for everybody. Maybe Sammons could learn some more stuff until he is ready, but you just cant ignore the fact that Braves NEED HIM UP HERE!!!

I repeat, it is very controversial to have that guy down there.

Then just just have to go for the kill against Wren. There is no way in hell Peña could be worse than Corky. I havent seen Johnny Bench defensive skills when he is catching. And the offense….lets not talk about it.

By Graham

June 20, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

DOB

Does Bobby ever read these blogs or even hear about the things the fans are saying? I am just curious, no other reason.

By Some Blogs Are INSANE

June 20, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

By GT80 June 20, 2008 9:49 AM I belive it’s been said that a definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. Why does Bobby keep having Blaine Boyer pitch in the 9th inning of a tie game?

By jukeandjive June 11, 2008 10:37 PM PATHETIC! The definition of insanity: doing the same things over and over and expecting different results. Please DOB mention this to Bobby and Frank. Things have to change!

By Einstein June 11, 2008 6:32 PM Greetings Braves fans and others, Who started all this talk about bringing Maddox back? Don’t you remember me saying that insanity is doing the same thing over and over, expecting different results. The Braves are old and worn out…we don’t need to get older.

By tbo June 11, 2008 8:34 AM Just to throw in my 2 cents again. Braves will never be a winner again until we get rid of Bobby Cox. We all know the definition of insanity and he is it.

By Coach Smith June 10, 2008 9:15 PM STOP THE INSANITY PLEASE… Attention BRAVES The definition of INSANITY is: doing the same thing again and again and expecting a different result

By N8 June 1, 2008 11:48 PM Nomad: “A person who does the same thing over and over and expects different results - definition of an idiot” That’s not very nice. I don’t like to refer to Bobby as an idiot. Just insane.

By N8 June 1, 2008 3:54 PM The play on the field is NOT Bobby’s fault. The fact that the lineup has not changed (like the mediocre play), IS Bobby’s fault. Look up the definition of insanity, if you don’t believe me.

By N8 June 1, 2008 2:36 PM To those of you that are gonna say “OK….what “moves” or lineup changes should he make?” How about ANYTHING other than trotting the same pathetic lineup out there day after day after day after day after day. By definition…….insane.

By Herschel Talker May 15, 2008 10:18 PM DOB: Seriously, why do they keep pitching James. I’m aware of all the injuries, but seriously. I believe one definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. Have the Braves not learned anything from their mediocre pitching experiences over the last 2 years?

By N8 May 1, 2008 12:54 AM Nice try though. However, you are correct. Today’s loss shows that KJ in the lead-off spot is only ONE of the teams issues. But it’s one with an EASY solution (even if only temporary - when KJ is healthy and ready to contribute…..give him his job back), yet Bobby won’t do it. That my friends, defines insanity.

By uga-brave April 16, 2008 11:15 PM all kidding aside, call it early if you will but the definition of insanity is “doing the same thing over and over again and getting the same undesirable results”

By N8 April 9, 2008 1:20 PM Well, I’d like to conclude that the Braves (Mainly Bobby) is insane, rather than unlucky. Because Benjamin Franklin’s definition of insanity is “doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.” So, by sending the same lineup out there, the same relievers into the same situations and doing things the same way (by the book), that repeatedly nets the same results, is by definition……..INSANE. Either way…..Bobby ends up looking insane to me.

By N8 April 16, 2008 12:01 AM If Benjamin Franklin were alive today, his official opinion of Bobby Cox, would be that the man is insane.

By richbrave January 24, 2008 8:39 AM Another pearl Dave. A post to your closing comment on this blog. Wasn’t it someone’s observation that doing the same thing over and over expecting a different result was akin to insanity? In this case are we supposed to assume human nature is the exception to the rule?

By crimedogrules January 17, 2008 9:57 PM I like all the trades. Someone said it earlier, “Why so much loyality to a bunch of players that finished third in the East for the last two years?” Expecting different results from the same factors is insanity, or however that saying goes.

By Lew October 20, 2007 11:51 AM One of the definitions of insanity is doing the same thing over again and expecting different results. Good thing you aren’t the new GM. This guy scares me with his injury potential and you want to trade Edgar for him. Were is the sense in that, for crying out loud?

By ebineezer August 24, 2007 10:45 AM The old saying goes something like insanity is doing the same thing over and over expecting a different result.

By The Truth Hurts August 22, 2007 4:45 PM We keep expecting something to click on this team. We keep waiting to see the team “flick the switch.” You know what the definition of insanity is. Exactly how many permutations of that term are we guilty of?

By BravesDave August 8, 2007 10:27 PM I believe that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result. As such, Bobby Cox is obviously INSANE. Sending Willie Harris with one out and KJ and Chipper prepared to take swings was idiotic.

By mr baseball July 24, 2007 11:38 PM What is the fascination the Braves have with washed up position players, especially former Braves. First Otis Nixon. Then Rico Brogna. Then Ken Caminiti. Then the immortal outfield duo of Mondesi & Jordan. Now Julio. Not a dam one of them worked out. Not one. They say the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. When do the Braves’ “brain trust” (oxymoron, anyone) come to the conclusion that everybody else who has watched the last few nights has already reached?

By Gil in Mechanicsville July 15, 2007 9:59 AM Grinch You realize the definition of insanity don’t you? That is to say doing the same thing repeatedly and expecting different results. You may try switching to a different potable. Cheap liquor has a tendency to make things worse. Sometimes the pleasure ain’t worth the pain.

By Earnest Beans June 24, 2007 11:42 PM Insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. -Ben Franks Last year, Smoltz started a controversy by saying he might like to go to the Tigers. And then came the ‘homeboy upstairs’ remark. This year he ticks off Chipper.

By TheCutMan June 23, 2007 7:48 AM I don’t see it happening from where I sit. We all know the definition of insanity, right? I’ll leave it there, for now.

By Vonshawn June 17, 2007 4:25 PM Memo to Bobby Cox: the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result. And Bobby, I realize that you are kind of slow, so I’m going to break down what I mean. Typically you make this mistake with pitchers, but now you’re doing it with a position player. Batting Andruw Jones in the middle of the lineup is a mistake; is hurting the team’s success; and I would bet silently it’s also hurting overall team morale.

By N8 June 9, 2007 12:42 PM Lew I hear you. Definition of insanity, my friend. I suspect we’ve got about 2-3 weeks of this same cast of characters in the same order, to be trotted out there. We won’t get our change, until Chipper returns. Just a gut feeling.

By Robert April 29, 2007 2:02 PM Lew — I do, however, like this part of your post “One of the prime indicators of insanity is keeping to the same modus operundi and expecting events to turn out differently” Again, as with Coach, the difficulty will lie in seeing if you can be made to understand what you just said.

By Lew April 29, 2007 1:15 PM Robert-Your pscychoses are well documented. One of the prime indicators of insanity is keeping to the same modus operundi and expecting events to turn out differently. This pretty much defines you and your completely unsubstantiated rants, which, in the long run, are nothing but personal theories.

By some jackass March 4, 2007 12:11 AM Only he who is nearing insanity can truly recognize he who is already there.

By Bronx Brave

June 20, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

Fine song selection today, DOB. In recognition of the final shows of the North American tour by the finest American rock band of my generation, here’s a top five list of REM’s best albums (in order):

(1) Automatic for the People (2) New Adventures in HiFi (3) Life’s Rich Pageant (4) Reckoning (5) Murmur

And…the ten best REM songs (in no particular order — sorry, couldn’t limit it to just five):

(1) Sweetness Follows (2) Fall on Me (3) Nightswimming (4) Country Feedback (5) Pretty Persuasion (6) Wendell Gee (7) Life and How to Live it (8) King of Birds (9) Be Mine (10) South Central Rain

By Bobby's Cox

June 20, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

My opinion on these trade talks:

Freel: No way. No power, poor bat, no playoff experience. Is what we currently have, just older. If we want him for his base running, why not bring up Anderson? Freel is currently on the DL with a hamstring issue, which may hinder his ability in CF and as a baserunner. Not to mention his SLG the last 3 years are .399, .347, and .359 in 131 AB this year. Again, might as well have a faster rookie with a career .370 SLG do the job, right Shaun?

Holliday: If the Rockies want to depart with him, which I heard they’re not, sure. He’ll replace power we’ll lose from Tex (although Tex is hardly providing power), but remind yourselves of his stats away from Coors Field.

Winn: Yes. He’s a bonafide leadoff hitter, a great veteran bat, and can still steal bases. Having Winn hit leadoff will allow players such as escobar & KJ hit in more natural roles. Should’ve gone after Winn instead of Kotsay anyway. I’m still scrating my head over the Kotsay deal.

Kotchman & Willits for Tex: That’s all? Getting 2 players for Tex? No way. Kotchman yes, but Willits? Is his feeble bat better than what we have with Anderson & Blanco & B. Jones. I don’t think so. Kotchman will be a good 1st baseman for this team, but the Angels will have to throw more in the package, including some relievers and some prospects. The Angels would be a good team to deal Tex to as they’ve been looking for power for about 3 years now.

Griffey: No. Injury prone, can’t play everyday. Expensive. Short-term. Can’t put the ball over the fence like he use to. If the braves wan’t to get him for marketing purposes, then fine, but I don’t think we can rely on the hall-of-famer.

Dunn. No thanks. If we want 2 Frenchy’s then ok. We don’t need rally killing K liability in the outfield.

Maddux: Only if we want all 3 of the HOF trio to retire with the braves this year. Another marketing ploy. If the current staff of youngin’s don’t hold up, then maddux makes more sense. Right now he doesn’t, and won’t either if Hampton finally comes back.

Heath Bell: Cha-ching. Would be a great pick up. I guess he could be packaged with Maddux. The Padres are in dire need of outfielders too. We have a bunch of young ones that are tradeable.

Giles: No. He’s not a difference maker. He’ll get on base, but aren’t we looking for outfielders with power who can drive in runs or hit leadoff?

In conclusion, this team needs a bonafide reliever like Heath Bell. Although the offense is a major reason of this teams inconsistancy, i don’t trust the bullpen to come through in the clutch. I think the hitting can be solved with what we have. I think Anderson needs to be given a shot at leadoff. We can’t have 4 lefty’s in the bullpen. I’d like to see KJ go back to LF for defensive reasons and lack of a better OF option. If we’re putting Norton out there, then I think KJ can do a helluva lot better. I think out of all the young players we have, Prado has the best bat and I would like to see him be given a shot at 2B. I’d like to see Frenchy be given a few days off in a row then be eased back into a platoon situation.

Those are my thoughts.

By Stuart

June 20, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

Freel would be helpful. He is a RH bat who can bat leadoff against lefty pitching, which in turn put Escobar in the 2 whole and KJ in the 6 or 7 hole in a run producing position. I think that makes the lineup better because you are ‘upgrading’ 3 spots. Plus he is another interchangeable part to play with. It gives you 5 OFs to play and rotate around because Kotsay’s back is iffy, and BJ and Gregor are rookies. I don’t think that move alone makes you contender, but it does help the lineup. The team still needs some pen help and/or a vet starting pitcher.

This has been on my mind lately, and Bradley’s article got me thinking. The thing about Frenchy is that he is shoved down our gullets so much. He is an average ballplayer that is made out to be Babe Ruth. I cannot count how many time that ‘In My Own Words’ show with him on there is played on FSN. I want to hear someone else’s words, geez!

I think he is a good dude. He was great to a coworker of mine in Chicago when they asked for pictures and autographs. I want him to succeed, but .300 OBP is not going to get it done unless you are knocking in 120 runs.

He would be liked more if he produced more or if he wasn’t shoved down our throats. I don’t think everyone would have this much venom for him if that would change.

By Graham

June 20, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

Alan

I don’t think that you are going to see Frenchy in any type of trade scenario in the near future. I truly believe that the front office, as well as the rest of the staff, feel as if he is the future face of the Braves. He has no long-term contract so he is not a financial problem and they will let him take as long as they feel is necessary to right his ship.

That being said, they could do a number of things that are off the wall i.e. Stockman/Ridgway.

By matt r

June 20, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

If the Rox don’t build around Holliday for years they are stupid as hell.

By Novice Ned

June 20, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this

Can we send Brandon Jones back down and call up Stockman? And when Hampton is ready, waive Norton to make room for Hamp. Let’s see, that would give us around 15 pitchers? OK, is there anyone else? Oh yeah, we can send down Blanco when Glavine is ready. I’m just trying to play along with the plan to ensure that we have NO position bench players and roster of like 16 pitchers. Now that’s innovative and winning baseball.

By McFann©

June 20, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

Overlord—

OK. No big deal, I just wondered.

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

I didn’t buy that “just for a day” explanation on Blanco leading off yesterday. Sure enough, he’s leading off again today, even against the lefty Bedard. Francoeur hitting seventh again.

The lineup: 1. Blanco (CF), 2. Escobar, 3. Chipper, 4. Teixeira, 5. Infante (LF), 6. Mac, 7. Francoeur, 8. Gotay (2B), 9. Campillo.

KOTSAY UPDATE: Big day, he took 30 swings for first time, hitting soft-toss in cage. Said he really didn’t hold back, and it felt good. He’ll shag balls and throw in outfield some during BP, then do core exercises and stuff during the game.

If he feels good tomorrow after all this, he’ll do it again and then move forward. He said he wants to be playing in a week, whether it’s here or rehab assignment, whatever they have him do.

PRADO will take BP for first time today since his broken hand. He’s supposed to go to Orlando for a couple days this week, then probably begin rehab assignment at Richmond.

By Braveheart

June 20, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

Some blogs are insane?!?!?!?

Some people are INSANE!!!!!!!!!!

Who the hell is so insane that they went through 2 years worth of posts to cite what people said about insanity?

That creeps me the hell out.

A March 4, 2007 post? Are you freaking kidding me?

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

Haven’t talked to Cox yet. Waiting for the pre-series meeting (they do it before first meeting with every opponent), then the clubhouse will re-open.

By Coach (Put up, shut up, do or die)

June 20, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

I knew it, I’m clinically insane, call me negative Nabob and pass the WEED ! Peace out !

By Efrim

June 20, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

Omar Infante is hitting 5th? Gotay in for Kelly Johnson? I figure that is still better than the M’s everyday offensive unit.

By McFann©

June 20, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

Infante’s batting fifth and Francoeur dropped to #7? Wow. Thanks, Bobby!

(Though I still think McCann should bat fifth even against lefties, but this is a step in the right direction.)

Great news on Kotsay!

Who broke his hand?

Thanks, Chief!

By Renegator

June 20, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

DOB:

I assume you mean Prado not Blanco is taking BP today.

By Braveheart

June 20, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

I know Chipper hates batting cleanup and it would ruin his chances of hitting .400 (whatever little chance he now has) but why not bat Chipper cleanup and Tex third?

The 2003 Braves were good with Chipper behind Sheff and the 2004 Braves didn’t really get rolling until Chipper dropped behind Drew in the batting order.

Tex is not hitting for power right but he is at least getting on base. The problem is that unless McCann drives him in, no one behind McCann is gonna do it.

So why not bat Tex third, getting on base the way he is so far and have two cracks at getting him over and in with Chipper and McCann before the black hole at the bottom of the lineup comes up?

By Thrillhouse44

June 20, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this

Good news about Kotsay.

Blanco says leading off is a big part of his game. I hope he gets some hits in that spot tonight.

Do you mean PRADO is taking BP?

By Jeff

June 20, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

Lineup is decent..Good to give KJ a rest..maybe it will help. Not sure about Infante in LF, why not BJones? Im relieved that Corky is not in the lineup.

By ncscoots

June 20, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

Think Prado will be here next week, I hope. And I hope Cox gives him lots of playing time.

I’m guessing that’s because his name is NOT Kelly Johnson? The Kelly Johnson who’s hitting .316 against lefties? That one?

Prado is 3-for-14 against lefties for .286 this year (21-for-81 career, .259), and it’s impossible to say that he’s “a good bat from the right side” off that. If he had any pop, then I could see him getting some AB against lefties (KJ slugs lower against LH), but he doesn’t. He’s a good utility guy and certainly gives me a better feeling than Gotay, but take AB from KJ to play Prado? That does not compute.

By troy

June 20, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

Get rid of Cork Miller. Either promote a young catcher or trade for one that can at least hit weight. I believe Corky is hitting around 0.079.

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

Bronx Brave, I really like New Adventures, but ahead of Reckoning and Murmur? Not for me. Those are classic, all-time albums. I’d also put Life’s Rich Pageant, Document, Automatic for the People and Out of Time ahead of New Adventures, and Fables would be about even or just ahead of it. I’d put Accelerate just a tick below New Adventures and Fables.

By ChopShop

June 20, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

Infante in the 5-hole, huh? Interesting. I like Escobar hitting second… in my opinion that is where is most valuable.

By Caleb

June 20, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

DOB,

did you mean Prado will take BP?

By N8

June 20, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

I guess in reading some of my old posts, I must be the one that’s INSANE.

I keep posting without getting different results. By definition……INSANE. LOL!

Anyhow. I didn’t by that “one game” thing from Cox either, DOB. That’s Cox’s style when making “moves”. He doesn’t announce it, or make a spectacle of it (unless it’s a veteran guy returning from injury or a role he lost DUE TO that injury).

I suspect that we’ll look back in a month or so, and see that Blanco has been leading off, more often than not (unless a trade is made).

Braveheart

Really? That creeps you out? I’ve got every blog since I’ve been blogging “bookmarked” for reference.

OK. I’m kidding. Yeah. Kinda creeps me out too. At least I’ll sleep easy knowing that I’ve been consistent in my stances the past couple of years, in case some crap gets thrown into my face. LOL!

And I thought that I had a lot of time to blog and “quote” people. Yikes.

By Renegator

June 20, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

Braveheart

While that is a good “thinking outside the box” idea. As much as Chipper is dialed in this year - I wouldn’t move him from the 3 hole.

By Overlord-D-Day

June 20, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

Kotsay will be OK for the rest of the season, but he needs to be platooned. I said it before, he should only play 4 games a week, regardless who plays the other 2 or 3 that same week.

By daniel

June 20, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,

Point taken about Chipper being able to get Tex in. But, Chipper gets on more than Tex, and then you’ve got the black hole not getting in the guy with the nearly .500 OBP. The guys at the bottom just need to start picking up the base runners, bottom line.

By KC

June 20, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

Here’s a blockbuster deal I would do:

Braves send Texeira, KJ, Brandon Jones, and Lillibridge to LAA for…

Kotchman and Figgins.

They’d probably never do it. KJ used to be a SS, so he could probably handle third… but that move would leave them without a leadoff man. And it would be risky for LAA (not knowing if you could re-sign Tex)… but I’d love to see such a deal.

I don’t think it would hurt us offensively this year, and we wouldn’t have to worry about Tex walking away.

By Coach (Put up, shut up, do or die)

June 20, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

Blanco leading off two games in a row, Gotay playing 2B, Francoeur batting seventh…..did Cox fall out of bed this morning and bump his head?

By Chop Chop

June 20, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,

(That “insane” post earlier got me looking back at the blog from June 22, 2007. I was scrolling through it and found this gem of yours…)

By Braveheart

June 23, 2007 12:21 AM | Link to this

CAPTAIN CAVEMAN - A million dollar body and a two cent head.

What happened to the brash, arrogant, swashbuckling kid who came up two years ago?!?!?!?!?!

Where the F did that cocky, arrogant Fer go, Frenchy?

You came up wearing those high socks, with the cool armbands, wearing number 7, the chosen one, THE SI NATURAL COVER BOY, with all the athletic arrogance one could ever want.

You seemed to be playing at a faster speed than the rest of the old men out there.

But know you have gotten all institutionalized and domesticated with the rest of that blah lubhouse.

You’ve been broken Jeff.

It all started when you pulled down your socks. And then pulled them up and then pulled them down and then up and then down.

You don’t look like a ballplayer with your socks down. You look like a man without an identity, a big tall doofus, a pitcher standing at the plate.

It’s like you are suffering some identity crisis or something. Don’t know who you are anymore.

You knew when you came up. But some vets probably gave you a ribbing about it. You doubted yourself, pulled them up and down, up and down, one minute conforming to the rest of the dweebs on the team, the next minute rebelling, and lost yourself.

Pull those damn socks back up to your damn knees and tell the world again, I am Jeffrey Freaking Francouer, my freaking arm and my freaking bat are slingblades and I aim to kill you with it.

Bring back the wild stallion, the bucking mustang, sporting the number of Mickey Mantle.

But be careful. They didn’t like the last homegrown rightfielder named David Justice who was brash, cocky, and arrogant. They sent him packing a year after he hit perhaps the second most important home run in Braves history. Maybe that is why you have conformed.

Pull those damn socks back up and take the baseball world by storm again, Jeffrey.

By Overlord-D-Day

June 20, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this

I thought Prado would be ready for next week…..sounds like 15 more days.

Norton should be use in RF platooning with JF.

By scottbravesfan

June 20, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this

REM rules as does Modest Mouse. I saw Pearl Jam in Columbia on Monday and it was the best show I’ve ever seen. The set list was insane.

Anyway not sure why Stockman got sent down seems like Bobby hates the poor guy. Francoeur is awful and should be sent down. Bring up Shafer and let him play center and move Blanco or Brandon Jones over to right field, which ever one has the better throwing arm.

By ncscoots

June 20, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

Blanco says leading off is a big part of his game. I hope he gets some hits in that spot tonight.

Man, me, too. Not the least because it would be something new under the sun, LOL (currently 1-for-9).

Guy’s hitting .300 at the bottom of the order, so how come nobody ever talks about how “comfortable” he is down there? :-)

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

June 20, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

Saltywood, that Francoeur post was the funniest thing I have ever read on this blog. It beats anything LaTwan Anthony ever wrote and that is saying something. I was literally laughing out loud for 10 minutes. That there, my friend, was classic humor. Unfortunately, it was also true!

By jbutler

June 20, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this

Blogs are insane Your post makes me want to logoff and go take a shower. Creepy.

By Overlord-D-Day

June 20, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this

ncscoots cause KJ is a weapon hitting 6th or 7th, blanco is no weapon down there. Meaning you get more out of KJ hitting him down the order than what you get out of Blanco.

By geauxbraves2000

June 20, 2008 5:22 PM | Link to this

I heard JF got so mad the other day that he went to punch the Gatorade cooler, but he swung and missed.

I’m not very enamoured with him right now, dreading every at bat of his in a crucial situation, but I will try to stop ragging on him for now. I still think something needs to be done to open his eyes (an optometrist maybe). Unless he really his injured, then I admire him playing though it, but it comes to a point where you start hurting the team. Who really knows, save JF, what’s going on with him right now.

Okay team, big series back at home, time to make up some ground.

Geaux Braves!!

By Braveheart

June 20, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop is an ahole for that one :)

By ncscoots

June 20, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

Omar Infante is hitting 5th? Gotay in for Kelly Johnson? I figure that is still better than the M’s everyday offensive unit.

Maybe by a run. At least, against a lefty. But I wouldn’t put it in the bank.

By McPrincipal©

June 20, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

McFann - report to my office in fifteen minutes !

By Efrim

June 20, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this

KC

Here’s a blockbuster deal I would do:

Braves send Texeira, KJ, Brandon Jones, and Lillibridge to LAA for…

Kotchman and Figgins.

You have to be kidding me. That is one of the worst trade offers I have ever seen man. The worst. What’s wrong with Kelly’s 808 OPS. Also, if you are going to trade Mark Teixeira, it better be for something better than 2 first round picks. The fact that you are adding Kelly Johnson, Brandon Jones and Brent Lillibridge in that deal is insane. I’m not the biggest Lillibridge fan, but come on man. How is that a good trade for the Braves? Are you that obsessed with speed at the top of the lineup?!?!?!

By john hoar

June 20, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

DOB-this may have been covered and I missed it. What exactly did Soriano’s doctor tell him in LA. It was reported that he was to be examined and I didn’t see a follow-up. The only thing I saw was when Bobby Cox said he had no idea when Soriano would want to come back, or something very similar. A touch of disdain and frustration there?

By Bronx Brave

June 20, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

To each his own, DOB, but it’s worth noting that none other than Michael Stipe proclaimed “New Adventures” his favorite REM album, and with the exception of the masterpiece that is “Automatic,” I’d say he’s right.

By GT

June 20, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

Everybody thought we would be double digits behind after the toughest road trip of the year. Cox is remarkable just keeping these guys within shotgun range of the lead. They will tear Seattle a new one.

By Braveheart

June 20, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

Now that Blanco is hitting leadoff, will he still be hitting leadoff three months from now like Willie Harris despite not hitting like a leadoff hitter? Probably.

By Greg Norton is hitting .225

June 20, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this

There is a lot of insanity on this blog, but what could be more insane than

GREG NORTON HITTING .225

Crazy!

By Efrim

June 20, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this

ncscoots

Maybe by a run. At least, against a lefty. But I wouldn’t put it in the bank

Nothing can be placed in the bank this season. Nothing. That said, the Mariners are pretty bad. I’m not even asking for a sweep. I just want to go 4-2 on this homestand. Win both series to get to 40-40 going up to Toronto. That’s all I ask.

By N8

June 20, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this

Watching the Cubs/White Sox game (only game on), and Ramirez hits a walk off HR in a 3-3 game. The Cubs are ROLLIN’!

Let me give you a summary of how the bottom of the 9th would go for the Braves in that situation.

1-2-3. Inning over. No…scratch that. It would go 1-2..walk, wild pitch (runner to 3rd), another walk, and then the opposing manager would walk the bases loaded to get to Jeff. He then would proceed to pop-out.

Then the bullpen would take the loss in the 13th inning, giving KC another bullet to complain about with our bullpen. LOL!

Anyhow. When it rains, it pours. It’s pouring victories in Chicago right now. For as many ways as the Braves have found to lose games this year, the Cubs appear to have found the counterpoint, when it comes to victories……INSANE.

Thank god I changed the channel, before I had to hear that stupid “Go Cubs Go…” Song.

KC

Since I jabbed at you in this post a little bit, I’ll “add” to your trade proposal with the Angels.

While we’re at it, why don’t we just see if we can add Francoeur in the trade too, if they’l give us Vlad?

By Jeff Francoeur

June 20, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this

Thats enough, all of you hate me. I was a hero 2 years ago and now I feel useless. Its over, Im taking a cyanide pill and say goodbye to this horrible world (and blog), sniff. Maybe you will miss me, maybe not. I gave everything I had. Its AJs fault, I paid too much attention to him trying to become him. So long denizens, and enjoy the rest of the season….

PS: I leave my RF position to Corky Miller, my only loyal friend in the world.

By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)

June 20, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop

Ahhhhhh, you guys knew me well.

However- with the weakening dollar and the advance of the yen, I can now boast a 5-cent head.

So see, patience is a virtue.

By tvsportscaster

June 20, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

KC has far as your 4:59 post goes about the proposed trade with LAA. You really should get off the drugs, Tex alone will garner you Kotchman and Figgins, let alone, adding KJ, Brandon Jones and Lillibridge to the mix.

By Greg Norton is hitting .226

June 20, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this

Greg Norton is hitting 225- Stop getting my stats wrong. I’m hitting .226, you jock strap. Now go sniff someone else’s crotch.

Sincerely, Greg Norton

By Greg Norton is hitting .226

June 20, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this

Greg Norton is hitting .225- Stop getting my stats wrong. I’m hitting .226, you jock strap. Now go sniff someone else’s crotch.

Sincerely, Greg Norton

By monty

June 20, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this

Braveheart:

That thing about Frenchy and his socks was hilarious! Reminded me of the Budweiser “Real Men of Genius.”

By Bill

June 20, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this

DOB— Believe it or not I’m a big Braves fan. I get so down on them. I know they have had to many injuries but they are better than they have shown. I don’t think they will ever trade Frenchie. I think he’s under so much pressure, being a local guy, that he is trying to hard. As for Tex, I’ve given up on him. Didn’t like the trade from the start. I do believe if they are way out that he will be traded. Go Braves—— I’m still behind them.

By Chop Shop

June 20, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this

to all those who are ready to trade Teixeira away… The reason you all want to trade him (disappointing power and clutch numbers, compared to lofty expectations after last year’s splash with ATL) is the very reason the Braves would never get back anything close to all the talent they gave up to get him. ATL is better off keeping him rather than giving him up for two or three guys that might not even make it up to the big leagues. Besides, look for him to go on a tear in the second half just like last year- then he’ll shut the lot of you up.

By Bobby's Cox

June 20, 2008 6:02 PM | Link to this

Captain Caveman

Reading your post from last blog, i disagree with your reasoning that Frenchy’s ankle is causing Frenchy to bend his front knee.

If you look at last video from 2006, Frenchy was doing the same thing then.

Bending that knee on his front foot plant gets his body in front of the pitch. Not only that, but he starts his swing much quicker than he should against ML pitching. He doesn’t see a pitch as long before he decides to swing, and that makes him prone to an outside slider.

It’s not his ankle messing with his mechanics in my book, & i’m beginning to wonder whether Frenchy even has the bat speed or skill necessary to wait on pitches longer. He hasn’t changed mechanics since he was brought up. It’s almost as if Frenchy knows he’s overmatched and decides whether or not to swing before a pitch is thrown. He’s not able to make mid-swing adjustments or adjustments throughout a game. Balls are more or less finding his bat than his bat manipulating what he needs to do with a given pitch.

Not good.

By Greg Norton is hitting .225

June 20, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this

Greg Norton has 21 hits in 93 at bats so his batting average is 0.225806… So, for all intents and purposes,

GREG NORTON IS HITTING .225

Don’t worry, soon it will be lower.

By Bobby's Cox

June 20, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this

Braveheart

Nice post from last June man. You write some good stuff.

By Beach Dawg

June 20, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this

Hitting problems = TP

Braves in 08 = T-O-A-S-T

By Mrs Bobby Cox

June 20, 2008 6:15 PM | Link to this

GT, Who thought the Braves would be double digit games behind??? Now maybe a team with a payroll of 19.6 Million with their projected 1st, 2nd and 3rd pitchers in the rotation being out the whole year—Now maybe on June 20, 2008 that team would be projected being Double Digits out, but not a team with a McCann, Texeira, Jones, Franceour, and Escobar.

By the way the Bravos better hope that Josh Johnson isn’t as close as he appears. They better hope that Sanchez stops progressing and they better hope that Willingham’s back continues to act up OR

1.Ramairez 2.Hermida 3.Cantu 4.Willingham 5.Jacobs 6.Uggla 7.Ross

Rotation: 1.Johnson 2.Nolasco 3.Olson 4.Miller 5. Tucker—-Not factoring in Sanchez

AND a Bullpen of Gregg,Pinto and some pretty good setup men looks pretty good.

And of course this franchise has already won more World Series in last 11 years than the Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves franchise has won in the last 50!!! So they are playing with house money. Just imagine if the Marlins had money, a stadium, fans, a legitimate owner, and a lucrative TV deal—Damn, they might be a threat.

By Mrs Bobby Cox

June 20, 2008 6:15 PM | Link to this

GT, Who thought the Braves would be double digit games behind??? Now maybe a team with a payroll of 19.6 Million with their projected 1st, 2nd and 3rd pitchers in the rotation being out the whole year—Now maybe on June 20, 2008 that team would be projected being Double Digits out, but not a team with a McCann, Texeira, Jones, Franceour, and Escobar.

By the way the Bravos better hope that Josh Johnson isn’t as close as he appears. They better hope that Sanchez stops progressing and they better hope that Willingham’s back continues to act up OR

1.Ramairez 2.Hermida 3.Cantu 4.Willingham 5.Jacobs 6.Uggla 7.Ross

Rotation: 1.Johnson 2.Nolasco 3.Olson 4.Miller 5. Tucker—-Not factoring in Sanchez

AND a Bullpen of Gregg,Pinto and some pretty good setup men looks pretty good.

And of course this franchise has already won more World Series in last 11 years than the Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves franchise has won in the last 50!!! So they are playing with house money. Just imagine if the Marlins had money, a stadium, fans, a legitimate owner, and a lucrative TV deal—Damn, they might be a threat.

By Beach Dawg

June 20, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

One more thing on TP — who coaches Chipper and BMac, the two best hitters? It sure isn’t TP!!! Maybe the Braves could hire the Dads to help Tex and JF — certainly could not hurt.

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this

Actually, Norton is 14-for-77 (.182). Stats are readily available online, man. Try harder to find them….

Gotta say, as huge and blatantly commercial as the new Chik-fil-a cow is above left field, I kinda like it. It’s got some minor-league tacky charm to it, like the Bull in Durman’s old park, that kind of thing.

But they should have a bull’s eye hanging from its sign though, “Hit this for year’s supply of chicken sandwiches,” something like that. Big Mac or Sosa could’ve taken aim at it back when gigantic humans roamed the baseball landscape….

By Dale Murphy

June 20, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

Can’t blame you for being aggravated Mrs Cox, but remember who is bringing in the big check. I’d back off a little bit. Forgive and forget.

By mike

June 20, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this

The Braves Need to Fire Bobby,Trade Tex and FRancour and Hudson and get a big bat and some pitching.They are going to Have to spend money to win.

By bf54

June 20, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this

DOB: You have returned to the building, and I appreciate it.

By Robin

June 20, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this

Maybe the new cow will work the same magic as the stadium fire when McGriff joined the team. The Fire-Dog! The team caught fire after that.

C’mon fellas!!!

By Greg Norton is hitting .182

June 20, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this

We were being generous in giving Mr. Norton credit for all his at bats including those with the Mariners. But Dave O’Brien, the arbiter of this blog has ruled that

GREG NORTON IS HITTING .182

So be it.

By Tomas

June 20, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

DOB,

If Sexson is designated for assingment will the team that gets him, will need to pay his 14 million dollar contract? If not or even if he is release I think the braves should get him. He is hitting 364 against lefties, has a lot of power, and he played left field for the indians in the 2000 season and made 0 errors in 58 games in that position. I don’t know if he can still play a position that he hasn’t played in 8 years, but if he can it would be great for the Braves. He also can give an occacional rest for texeira, and have a big weapon in the bench for in game late situations. He is 34, and appears to be perfectly healthy.

I really think that being in Seatle has affected richie a bit. The Mariners are the team that travels the farthest to play their division rivals. And he is not the first to be affected by this.

By Mrs Bobby Cox

June 20, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

Dear David, Always liked you young man. Could you please tell me how team with a payroll less than Tom Glavine and Mike Hampton, with no fans, playing in a football stadium, with a bad TV deal and an owner who would rather pocket luxury tax money—Why are they 2 games out with Josh Johnson, Anibel Sanchez and Sergio Mitre not having thrown a pitch???

And how has my Bobby actually won fewer World Series than these guys. Actually the only time they EVER spent any money they won and the other time they spent a little bit, but not a whopping amount and they won again. Good thing they didn’t have Time Warner backing since 92 or Bobby might have won nothing.

By Braveheart

June 20, 2008 6:41 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox cussing out the ump in the Phillies series:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ujnOR01-Mpg

By AdirondackDave

June 20, 2008 6:44 PM | Link to this

Apparently Tim Russert has replaced David Wright as the world’s leading human being. Never thought I’d see such a thing in my lifetime.

By Mrs Bobby Cox

June 20, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this

Dear Davey, I just saw the starting lineup—he won’t tell me before the games—-and maybe he did bump his head. You know we have enough money. Very simple tastes. Maybe all you nice people could talk him into retiring while he can still ambulate. I’d like to see Thailand and the Riviera, and it’s not like we’re going to win a Championship, and I know those banners along the upper deck have almost become a joke around the rest of the country. So how about everybody chiming in with a nice “Thanks For The Memories” chant this homestand. I’d appreciate it, and so would he down deep.

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 6:56 PM | Link to this

Still nothing new on Soriano, other than he was still sore when he threw yesterday, according to Bobby.

Soriano told me he’s seeing Braves doctor tonight at 7 p.m., don’t know if that’s to go over what Yocum had to say after seeing the MRI or what. They’re very sketchy on anything new with Soriano. They’re all frustrated, it’s clear to see.

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 6:58 PM | Link to this

GONZALEZ HAS A BLISTER … relax, it’s on his glove hand. On index finger. How he got that, I don’t know (he didn’t either). But it’s not a big deal, obviously. Just thought I’d share that.

He didn’t pitch yesterday only because that wasn’t a closer situation, on the road in a tie game, etc.

Gonna be monitored each day initially, but so far he feels great and no restrictions.

By David Wright

June 20, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this

Apparently Tim Russert has replaced David Wright as the world’s leading human being. Never thought I’d see such a thing in my lifetime.

David Wright is and always will be the world’s leading LIVING human being. David Wright will never relinquish that title. Russert is holding the title of the world’s leading dead human being until the day David Wright decides David Wright has done everything David Wright can do for this world.

By bf54

June 20, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this

Don Coburleone at 2:00pm. Hey, I look at the entrails, too, for some some sign of Fate. But at 36-38, I wanna see Wins, and wins only. The last refuge of a ‘lost season’ is the comfort we take in individual stats and what we think they “portend” for the future. I, for one, was not the least impressed by JFrancouer’s pathetic retreat to the ‘friendly confines’, and I wasn’t impressed with KJ’s sense of being let off the hook for a dropped fly ball. We pay these guys to produce WINS, and when they don’t we have a right to replace them. Sentiment is fine, as far as it goes, but I, for one am tired of the “last ten games”, “hits against lefties”, “does well in the first 5 innings” - come on, we’re baseball fans, and statistics are for losers! Its how many out of 162. KJ’s dropped pop fly was just one of ‘em, Acosta’s gophers are, what, five of ‘em! (Atlanta Hawks made the Celts go 7, the Laker’s didn’t. The won/lost records of all three clubs will soon be lost in the data world, the Celtics rule because they had the heart and desire. This team lacks an awful lot of the so-called intangibles. I love this team, but I want wins, not excuses, and this ain’t deliverin’ em - plain and simple.

By TennesseePaul

June 20, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this

Chop Chop: Finally, with all else I had to do, I have it here. The 2004/2008 comparison by position, excluding the pitchers, through the first 74 games. I hope I got all the numbers right. I’m 90% certain I did…

       2004 First 74 Games   2008 First 74 Games  Advg
       AVG  OBP  SLG  OPS    AVG  OBP  SLG  OPS  
1B    .229 .276 .365 .641   .260 .356 .421  .778  2008
2B    .297 .353 .417 .770   .272 .346 .432  .778  2008
3B    .225 .277 .326 .603   .387 .470 .620 1.090  2008
SS    .236 .292 .349 .641   .289 .367 .387  .754  2008
C     .228 .290 .281 .571   .276 .353 .505  .858  2008

CF    .239 .332 .471 .803   .291 .361 .410  .771  2004
LF    .275 .354 .465 .819   .251 .315 .355  .670  2004
RF    .268 .382 .525 .907   .253 .304 .411  .715  2004
DH    .194 .275 .472 .747   .167 .259 .333  .593  2004
Bench .270 .313 .438 .751   .237 .353 .351  .704  2004

The outfield this year looks terrible compared to 2004. The Bench is only slightly worse… but that Outfield is atrocious.

By McFann©

June 20, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this

How he got that, I don’t know (he didn’t either). DOB

It’s a new rule: Pitch (good) for the Braves, and you must have at least one blister.

Why can’t the game start NOW? 29 more minutes? Come on…

By TennesseePaul

June 20, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this

I take that back. The Bench isn’t slight. It’s terrible as well. Fix the Outfield and the Bench and it’d be amazing. 2nd base is pretty much a wash. But KJ is putting up a better OPS without all the needles, creams, and pills…

By Dan

June 20, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this

Batting McCann below Infante? Batting Infante fifth, period? Batting the most powerless player on the team, a left handed, leadoff? Taking Kelly Johnson out of the lineup, when he is hitting .316/.349/.382 against left handers this season and putting in Gotay, who’s season stats are worse than Johnson’s are against lefties.

Also Johnson’s OPS this season against lefties is .731 (.808 overall). Blanco’s season OPS is .698 (.580 against left handers!). Can someone explain why one sits and the other plays and bats leadoff?

Bobby Cox very clearly plays favorites. He cares more about putting “his guys” out there then fielding the best team. It’s like the Stockman/Devine vs. Ridgway/Acosta thing (and that’s just one small and very recent example….let’s not forget Keith Lockhart).

By AdirondackDave

June 20, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this

DAVID WRIGHT — Good one. Actually I thought about dedicating the entire 20th century to Tim Russert and the 21st to David Wright. But perhaps one century each isn’t adequate given their achievements. What do you think?

By Keith Lockhart

June 20, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this

I was really hoping my name would not come up, but someone just had to bring me up! I tried and tried and tried, but to no avail! I did my best! I wasn’t perfect, but at least I tried hard! BACK OFF!!!

By BravesFanInRockies

June 20, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this

Francouer hitting below Infante? Burrrn.

By BravesFanInRockies

June 20, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this

Charley Kerfeld sighting!!

See “the hot corner”:

http://www.philly.com/dailynews/sports/20080620PaulHagen_Hot-seatseasoncomesearlyforbaseballthisyear.html

By jbutler

June 20, 2008 7:40 PM | Link to this

I’m the last to disrespect a dead person…but..really. Do we really need to clear a space on Rushmore for Russert?? Obviously great guy..but perspective, please!

I think the chopping cow is great. Wonder if PETA will unleash its venom on the poor thing…

By Shamus Thacker

June 20, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this

I think Campillo can outhit Stenchy, who should be batting ninth. They should have let the pitchers hit and DH’d for Stenchy in the I’league games.

By Robin

June 20, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this

Good-lookin’ AB Blanco! Attaway to go get ‘em!

By Shamus Thacker

June 20, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this

I think Campillo can outhit Stenchy, who should be batting ninth. They should have let the pitchers hit and DH’d for Stenchy in the I’league games.

By AdirondackDave

June 20, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

JBUTLER — I’m with you on the Rushmore thing.

By Graham

June 20, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this

Lack of patience from Escobar. Two pitches. Younger players are having a hard time being patient at the plate.

By Shamus Thacker

June 20, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this

I think Kieth Richards should be on Mount Rushmore.

By Graham

June 20, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this

DOB

I enjoy your ecclecticism in music and your posts on it. Stepping away from REM and similar bands, do you like groups like Shinedown?

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this

Infante can flat-out play. What a solid defensive player at multiple positions.

By McFann©

June 20, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this

Whoooooo doggy! AMAZING CATCH!!

By BravesFanInRockies

June 20, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this

Ya know, maybe Bobby does read the blog and he decided to put Gregor in the leadoff spot against a lefty just for spite …

By Jeff321

June 20, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this

GREAT catch by Infante!

By geauxbraves2000

June 20, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this

He caught the ball!! He caught the ball!!

By BravesFanChris23

June 20, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this

INFANTE!!!!

What a catch. Hopefully that is a Web Gem nominee.

By Robin

June 20, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

Infante’s a ballplayer! I’ve said it. I’ll keep saying it.

By prattvillenolzfan

June 20, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

I made a comment yesterday about how even Joe Simpson is starting to sound frustrated about Franceour…

Did anyone pick up on the comment he just made about Chipper…

Simpson said that Chipper is like Maddux, by that he can remember how each pitcher pitched to him as far back as ten years ago……

Chipper said he doesn’t share the information unless he is asked, Skip said you must be a fool not to take advantage of Chipper’s knowledge.

Joe said that there are those on the Braves that does take advantage, and then there are some who doesn’t.

Wonder who he’s talking about???????

By The Braves' Season Has Come

June 20, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this

Get your world series tickets now. The Braves have the rally cow!

By mr baseball

June 20, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this

Blanco who can’t hit lefties is batting leadoff. Kelly Johnson, who can hit lefties, is on the bench. Infante, who has about as many HRs in his career as McCann does this season, hits 5th in front of him.

Every night, Bobby Cox offers up lifes rich pageant of wonderfully inexplicable managerial decisions. Strange batting orders. Leaving pitchers in one batter too long. Bizarre bullpen maneuvers.

I think REM may have written a song about him. If Cox wasn’t the subject of “Man on the Moon,” it’s certainly an accurate description of where some of his decisions seem to come from.

Maybe not. There is absolutely nothing up his sleeve. Nothing.

By Efrim

June 20, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this

Bedard is nasty.

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this

I’m thinking that Francoeur’s struggles might stem from the fact that he’s coming to bat most of the time with Bon Jovi’s “Shot Through The Heart” playing.

I mean, really, that’s tough for anyone to overcome.

By Scott from Fairburn

June 20, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this

Way to work the count Frenchy …

By Greg Norton is hitting .182

June 20, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this

You know, Greg Norton really didn’t love America until his average dropped be .200.

By Interested Observer

June 20, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this

I had forgotten that Gotay was on the roster!

Infante AND Ohman for Ascanio…not bad, huh?

Seeing that darn cow makes me want to grill up a nice juicy steak.

By Graham

June 20, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this

Why didn’t Campillo freakin’ bunt?!?

By Braveheart

June 20, 2008 8:22 PM | Link to this

Bon Jovi’s Living on a Prayer would be the more appropriate selection since that’s all he’s got left at this point.

By N8

June 20, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this

“I’m thinking that Francoeur’s struggles might stem from the fact that he’s coming to bat most of the time with Bon Jovi’s “Shot Through The Heart” playing.”

While you might have a point…..what’s his problem on the road?

Why is there a guy warming up in the Mariner’s pen? Is Bedard hurt?

NICE hustle double by Ibanez, and kind of a LAZY play by Blanco in CF. If THAT ends up being the difference in this game, that is sad.

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this

If Blanco doesn’t wind up there, if he just releases the throw in one motion, he could’ve nailed Ibanez at second.

By Efrim

June 20, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this

Bedard out of the game.

By keylargo

June 20, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this

That looks like a calf cramp on Bedard.

By Robin

June 20, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this

I’ve said this too. Blanco’s lackadaisical play in center is going to bite us on the a$$. It just did again, dammit! For cryin’ out loud.

By Jeff321

June 20, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this

Campillo doesn’t seem to be throwing much of his “signature” off speed junk tonight.. Does he have blisters or some other ailment?

By N8

June 20, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this

DOB

“If Blanco doesn’t wind up there, if he just releases the throw in one motion, he could’ve nailed Ibanez at second.”

I just backed up to that play on the DVR and you’re right. But it’s pretty obvious that Blanco “ho-hummed” his way to the ball. I don’t think he remotely thought that Ibanez was gonna go for two, thus the big wind-up.

Either way. No harm, no foul, I guess. But since Blanco’s arm doesn’t appear to be his biggest asset in the field, he’d be better served to hustle his azz to any ball hit to either of his sides.

Not complaining. Just stating.

By Andy

June 20, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this

I wonder if Joe Simpson would make a good manager?? I have always liked his analysis of the game. Whaddya think?

By Efrim

June 20, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this

Come on Omar. Gotta score some runs here.

By Efrim

June 20, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this

Come on Heap. Swing away. Don’t walk, we all know who is hitting behind you……

By N8

June 20, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

People. We’ve found our LF platoon, IMO.

Infante/B. Jones will work just fine for me.

Now what do we do about RF?

Speaking of. Oh MY!! Jeff up with the sacks full.

Wagers anybody?

By McFann©

June 20, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this

.306!! (With RISP, and the season!)

By Elsie

June 20, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

Moooo!!!!

By Scott from Fairburn

June 20, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

That a boy Frenchy …

By McFann©

June 20, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this

No…no…that didn’t just happen…

Yes it did.

By N8

June 20, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this

ROFLMAO!!

What a worthless piece of…..

By Efrim

June 20, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this

I am not even sure what to say about Jeff anymore.

I knew that was going to happen, which is really sad.

He can’t catch up to those fastballs which caught a lot of plate, all he could do was foul them off and then hit a weak grounder to 3rd for an easy double play.

The poor guy is lost.

By Dustin Robinson

June 20, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this

I want Jeff Suckceour off this team so badly.

By Jeff Francoeur

June 20, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this

Its funny only to picture 90% of you bloggers start screaming after that weak bouncer DP by JF. LOL.

Bobby will never understand, and we will keep suffering. He will not get out of it this year…. bobby is the only one not to figure that one out yet.

By Supes

June 20, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this

Why, oh why do the BRAVES have the worst luck…having JEFF FRANCINE coming up to bat with bases jacked, it seems.

I wish it was Mac, or Infante, or anyone else but FRANCINE.

Did everyone expect anything else from Jeff? I was sitting at home and called it…DP. 2-18 now with the bases jacked, and a STELLAR .232 with RISP for 2008

Yes, where is that follow up MARK BRADLEY article???

By DerekZ

June 20, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this

Frenching does it again. Meaning, he doesn’t do it.

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this

Not a banner night for young Blanco in CF.

By geauxbraves2000

June 20, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this

I thought I give JF a break, but I was wrong, something has to be done NOW. Bench him, trade him, I don’t care, this is just getting stupid now. But will BC bench him? Maybe as soon as I win Mr Universe. arrrrrrrgggghhh!!!!

By beau vighn

June 20, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

Ok folks, for crying out loud. All you Parkview people can kiss my a* but your freakin’ boy Francouer is killing us. How far can you go with someone who is not producing.

He needs to sit awhile until he can get his confidence and swing back

By Robin

June 20, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

Andy: I don’t know if he’s “managing material” but, yeah, I like his analysis too.

Anyone else cringe when Chipper has to score from second? Hope he’s OK.

Attaboy Frenchie! Enough is enough!

By N8

June 20, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

Yikes. Not a good night so far for Blanco in CF.

KC

If Campillo (or the bullpen) gives up the lead in the middle innings here tonight, is the pitching to blame, or the offense for not pushing across a few more runs?

I think the next spot that Cox moves Jeff to in the order, should be 10th.

Dude is just KILLING this team right now.

By Canuckbravesfan

June 20, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

It doesn’t seem to matter where they bat JF in the line-up. The bases loaded situation always seems to find him.

By BravesDave

June 20, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

Only three things in life are certain: Death, taxes, and Jeff Francoeur failing to produce with the bases loaded.

Just get this guy out of the lineup.

By prattvillenolzfan

June 20, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

N8, that same ho-hum approach seemed to rear its head there on the double to the track. Would’ve take a good play to get it, but not a great play….

And Francoeur — this bases-loaded ineptitude is becoming epic….

This just in: BEDARD back spasms on right side…

By Del

June 20, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this

Darn… J. Flameout is so predicable. Why in the world cann’t we het him out of the lineup for a week or so and see what happen to our offense?

By StingerSplash

June 20, 2008 8:49 PM | Link to this

Has there been a position player who has been this overwhelmingly bad with the bases loaded? And now Campillo’s got em on the corners with one out with Ichiro up. He’s gonna have to work some magic here after Frenchy’s rally killer.

By Dru from Mobile

June 20, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this

Just a thought, but Frenchy is having a hard time picking up the pitch. Maybe this is an effect of being beaned in the head/face twice. Just saying, as hard as he’s been hit, it may cause him to flinch when the pitch is thrown. I don’t think I’ve seen that as a possible explanation, so throwing in my two cents.

By N8

June 20, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this

HELLUVA play by Tex. Well done.

By braves70

June 20, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this

Seattle dodged a double play by the pitcher striking out. If only we had been so lucky with the human rally killer Francoeur.

By Millard Fillmore East

June 20, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this

I’m thinking Campillo is looking more and more like a longterm starter. Good job getting out of that 1st and 3rd pickle.

By Cody

June 20, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this

Francour is an example of why we need another bat for this enemic lign-up. He is sorry as Hell OOOOO.

By Steve McP

June 20, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

WOW - 3,2,5,1,6 Double Play!!!

By RainMan

June 20, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

How about Francoeur and Chipper for Ichiro and Bedard?

By Cody

June 20, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

Francour is an example of why we need another bat for this enemic lign-up. He is sorry as Hell OOOOO. Wow Camp eo lucky

By Rush

June 20, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this

Wow, nice bit of pitching there. Campillo > Ichiro!

By iowabrave

June 20, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this

Frency is starting to remind me of another Jeff. Anyone remember Jeff Blauser’s season in ‘95? I had to look it up, but he hit .211. That was 2 years after hitting .305. Everytime Blauser came up that year, he was behind 0-2 or 1-2. He had started to lose all kinds of bat speed and couldn’t hit a good fastball for anything. Frenchy’s alot younger, but he seems behind alot of fastballs and gets done early in count. Might explain why he’s getting punked with the bases juiced. Pitcher has to come at him and he can’t catch up with the fastball. I’m sure he hasn’t aged that quick, but maybe the extra weight is slowing him down. Bat speed is about flexibility & wrists, not muscles. I’ve never coached above little league, so what do I know. Something to think about…..

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this

Bringing in the lefty to face Blanco. Smart move.

By Rush

June 20, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this

Then Campillo follows it up by getting the sacrifice down………..Maybe Wren should be asking him for the phone number of whoever has been coaching him for the last 8 or 9 years in Mexico………

By Cody

June 20, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

I am tired of Francour, send him to the minors for the rest of the year to kill that oversized ego and trade for someone that can hit above .260 that is just about any right fielder. man if I was him I would want to go to the minors he looks like a child playing with men.

By N8

June 20, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

DOB

You’re right about that double over Blanco’s head. He appeared to slow up, or jog back to it (it appeared by body language on the replay that he thought he had it all the way), and it just took off on him.

It’s one thing if a guy is over-matched and gets beat or the ball finds him (like it seems to do with a guy out of position), but when the kid has the speed he has, and it’s an effort issue…that’s un-acceptable.

I can’t imagine Cox will put up with that too much longer, if that’s the effort he’s gonna give out there.

It’s too bad, too. Because it appears as though Bobby was ready to turn the lead-off spot over to him for a while. NOT hustling is the quickest way to get in Bobby’s dog-house.

By Cody

June 20, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this

I say trade KJ and a b pitching prospect to Baltimore for Roberts cause Blanco will bot be a lead off hitter for a team that wants the ultimate prize.

By Supes

June 20, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this

What’s so discouraging about FRANCINE’s struggles with bases jacked is the lack of sac. fly production. Forget the fact that he can’t get a hit…he can’t even get a run in by hitting a fly ball! Fundamentals!

Braves can’t bunt, and can’t get sac fly it seems.

BTW…Infante is a gamer. That trade with the Tigers looks better and better. We got a developing young stud pitcher, and a good utilty guy for Rent, who isn’t exactly tearing it up so far in 2008.

As usual…all of these men left in scoring position, I hope it doesn’t come to haunt the Braves in the end.

By Tommy Bowden

June 20, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this

Frenchy, don’t forget you still have 4 years of eligibility remaining at Clemson!

By Cody

June 20, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

DAMMMMMMMMIT runner on second with nobody out and we can’t get the run home. This crap is getting old. The season isn’t new anymore Frank. get players in here that can hit when there arse is against the wall.

By Bama

June 20, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

What the he!! did Josh Anderson do to p** Cox off. Cox never gave the kid a chance like he did Blanco and Jones. It Sucks!

By Jeff Francoeur

June 20, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this

Im just trying to make you sick, am I good at it?

By Elsie

June 20, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

Moooo!!!

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

There will be no Gold Glove for the RF this year, I’d have to think.

By Scott from Fairburn

June 20, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this

Killing us with the glove now … that a boy Frenchy … In the words of Joe Simpson, “Jeff’s angle to it was VERY sharp” I think he meant to say he f@#k%# up

By Braveheart

June 20, 2008 9:10 PM | Link to this

What a freaking nightmare. He just might be starring again in Gwinnett next year if he keeps this up.

By Robin

June 20, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

Tex flashin’ the leatha’ JF stinking it up in right, pitiful effort on that.

Pitiful.

You can’t teach “hustle.”

By N8

June 20, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

Tex brought the leather to park tonight.

Too bad Jeff didn’t.

By Overlord-D-Day

June 20, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

Off his glove…… thats 2 errors in 2 games. Even if they dont give them to him, he had to catch that one.

By prattvillenolzfan

June 20, 2008 9:12 PM | Link to this

GREAT POST TOMMY

You know we keep picking of Frenchy, and while we are still picking on him about his Bases-loaded DP, he misplays another ball in right…

Picking on Franceour is like shooting fish in a barrell

By Supes

June 20, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this

Darn…just when I thought FRANCINE struggles at the dish weren’t enough…ANYONE want to argue his defense isn’t what it used to be?

That ball he just missed (Beltre’s double) was very catchable and a ball he gets to…and the other day he booted one when he had a chance to throw the guy out at the plate.

Something is terribly wrong with Jeff FRANCINE in 2008. If this keeps going any longer he’s gotta be sent down to the minors.

If the snakes are willing to send Upton down, and the Tigers sent Dontrelle down…is Jeff FRANCINE above reproach here? If it ultimately helps him, gets his straightned out, why not? Oh yeah, this entire town, Bobby COX, and most of the AJC staff have a love affair with him. God forbid he gets sent down to the minors to work on his overall approach hitting, his mechanics and rediscover his defensive abilities.

By Braveheart

June 20, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this

Oh, Jesus, please call up Stockman and Anderson and expose the ever living hell out of them so that I never have to hear people getting all nutty about how good these guys are anymore

By Overlord-D-Day

June 20, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this

WOW, chipper has lost 30 points in like 2 weeks.

By JEB

June 20, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this

One thing I have to say about DOB - He DOES report the facts! The facts, nothing but the facts! Good job!

By BravesDave

June 20, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this

I have to amend my post from earlier tonight…

Only FOUR things are certain in life: Death, taxes, Francoeur failing to produce with the bases loaded, and mediocre play in RF by Francoeur.

I apologize for the error.

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this

If this keeps up, Chipper will be hitting .350 by the All-Star break. I feel bad for him. How do you tell the old guy it’s over? it’s almost like watching Willie Mays hang on way too long, when Willie was limping around the outfield….

(kidding, folks)

By iowabrave

June 20, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this

DOB

Was kind of an icky route there by Frency, wasn’t it?

On the other side of the coin, Campy just buckles down and limits the damage. I can remember Don Sutton talking about how good Glavine & Maddux were at that when they were rolling. Not saying Campy’s a HOFer, but he’s got that trait, it seems.

By braves70

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

Campillo should file for a return to Mexico where they know how to hit and catch the ball, which is something this group of lumpy louses cannot do at all.

By Todd

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

No Gold Glove, No Silver Slugger either, LMAO

By prattvillenolzfan

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

Braveheart

It would take Jesus to call them up…..Cox & Wren sure as hell don’t want to………..

By Andy

June 20, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

Buck Martinez came from the booth and did okay. Simpson doesnt seem fiery or very inspirational, but his analysis is spot on, and I think he’d make much better decisions than Cox has the last couple of years, that’s for sure.

By N8

June 20, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

I know somebody made mention of this the other day (or maybe earlier today), but it’s worth bringing up again.

While Chipper has had a SUPERB season so far, since siting out with the injury, he is now (including tonight), 6 for 32 (.187) in the 10 games since re-injuring himself.

He doesn’t look the same. Dude needs a day or two off.

With JF (who I will now refer to as 6-4-3), sucking it up, we need Chipper at FULL strength. Can’t afford to have him hobbling through games for the rest of the year.

Gotta hand it to Campillo though. Nice outing tonight. Knock on wood (as I type this there is 1 out in the 7th).

By Supes

June 20, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

I think Josh Anderson was sent down for the same “reason”. As Bobby Cox would say…he needs to play everyday and get some at bats. Same reason why Sammons is in AAA and Corky Miller with his “stellar” game of hitting below the Mendoza line are with the big league club.

By N8

June 20, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this

“What the he!! did Josh Anderson do to p* Cox off.”*

Rumor has it that he was playing his Kenny Lofton “mix CD” too loud in the club-house.

By BravesDave

June 20, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, good idea regarding calling up Anderson and Stockman so that they can be exposed. I think Cox and Wren must have had the same thing in mind when they called up Ridgway.

By DAP01

June 20, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this

Why is Jeff F. above critism? He slumps and goes 0-4 and he is still going to start. He needs to go to the minors and learn to be a ball player. He probably now is going to wish that he has taken the long terms deals that he has been offered.

Our outfield is AAA at best.

By Overlord-D-Day

June 20, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this

This is gonna be the worst of all……a lose at home against the worst on the road team. And as if it was not enough…….by 1 run.

By Tommy Bowden

June 20, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this

Nice pass deflection out there, Frenchy. Make ‘em punt!!

By BravesDave

June 20, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this

Stay classy, Atlanta Braves. Stay classy.

Losing to the Mariners at home. A team that lost their ace after the third inning. This Braves team finds new ways to drive its fans nuts every day.

By A-ville Ranger

June 20, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this

I really think it could be in Jeff’s best interest to spend some time in Richmond.The kid looks ”wide eyed” in everything he’s doing now.

By prattvillenolzfan

June 20, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

I’ve said it before, that JJ character on Peachtree TV is the most annoying person of TV…..

Where are you Katy when we need you….

By BravesSuckTonight

June 20, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this

2-1 Seattle, the Braves are now officially the worst team in baseball, and Jeff Francoeur the worst player on the worst team, way to draft Braves! Blows a chance to break the game open, then screws up a line drive…way to go Jeffrey….are you on drugs?

By Robin

June 20, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this

There’s something going on upstairs in Jeff. You can see it in his face. He clearly does NOT want to be playing ball … at least for us anyway.

Luster has worn off on his marriage? Who knows what?

By Waive Bennett

June 20, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this

The Braves getting overpower by the 25-47, and 10-23 on the road, Seattle Mariners.

By N8

June 20, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this

The sad thing is, is that Bennett and the pen will get blamed if this game gets out of hand (which it is about to - I KNEW I spoke too soon on Campillo’s outing - though he still took it into the 7th inning and gave us a chance to win).

The pitchers are doing what they can people. Bad defense (even with the nice plays mixed in between - Infante and Tex), and HORRIBLE hitting.

And now Chipper is limping.

Yikes.

By jbutler

June 20, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this

DOB Hey- I agree about JF’s music. I mean - I think he should be playing “Living on a Prayer”. Much more appropriate.

By Supes

June 20, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this

DAP01

Apparently almost 3 months of below average play by Jeff IS NOT ENOUGH to convince all the JEFF FRANCINE supporters that something is wrong with his overall game. This is about as bad as I’ve seen him play in a Braves uniform. See, we are called “haters” and every other name in the book (including the awesome “not real fans”:look: ) just for daring to bring up criticism about Jeff. (mind you justified by the facts!)

At least DOB is objective about FRANCINE’s play and doesn’t hero worship this guy! Thanks DOB, I don’t always agree with your opinions but you are fair and balanced in your blogs, and don’t sugar coat and cover for players when they are not producing.

By northbeach Scott

June 20, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this

Has Bennett allowed almost all of his inherited runners to score? What would possess Cox to place a mucker like Bennett in the pivital inning of the the game? Oh yeah, we saw this drill, yesterday with Ridgway.

Bad choice Donk. No sugar cubes for you tonight. Well, Frenchy will take care of him.

By StingerSplash

June 20, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this

wonder what the Braves’ record in games where Frenchy has a bases-loaded opportunity. And now Bennett isn’t exactly dousing the fire. In fact, he is reaching for more lighter fluid.

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this

I believe the Mariners are “hitting it where they ain’t” about now. What has happened to this game? it careened off the tracks for the Bravos….

By the way, Bennett hasn’t been very effective on a regular basis for a while now.

By Efrim

June 20, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this

So much for getting it going when we go home.

And there is a sac fly to make it 4-1 Seattle.

Bedard leaves the game after the 3rd, but the offense still can’t get it going.

Sigh.

By TennesseePaul

June 20, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this

Wow, Bennett is falling apart these days…

By Jeff321

June 20, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this

Classic Bobby Cox move.. He waits until Capillo (who doesn’t have his best stuff tonight) gave up run #2 with runners on 1st&2nd. What ever happened to “holding” the other team until we take the lead? Oh right, Cox only cares about playing Frenchy and sending Stockman down. What a shame my favorite team has to be managed by this sub par decider! DONG! And Cox brings in Bennett who can’t handle tight situations and now we’re losing 4-1.

By kirknga

June 20, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this

I think we can now add Bennett to the overused list along with Boyer and Acosta.

By Crabby Bill

June 20, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this

This team just ain’t got it folks.Campillo deserved better than getting reamed by poor hitting and a lousy pen.

By braves70

June 20, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this

Wonder what kind of lame excuses Mark Bradley will offer for Jeff Flunkoeur tomorrow? I hope he gets booed everytime up from now on.

By Waive Bennett

June 20, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this

Also, earlier in the game Skip Caray said “that’s why the Mariners are 25-47” after they hit into that double play with runners on first and third and one out.

And this game is why the Braves are not a playoff game. They can’t beat said 25-47 team.

By Waive Bennett

June 20, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this

Also, earlier in the game Skip Caray said “that’s why the Mariners are 25-47” after they hit into that double play with runners on first and third and one out.

And this game is why the Braves are not a playoff team. They can’t beat said 25-47 team.

By Coach Smith

June 20, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this

This is PAINFUL to watch…

The worst team in the world comes, just fired their coach and GM, their pitcher gets hurt and has to leave…and what happens?????

The Braves manage ONE FREAKING RUN in 7 innings and are now down 4-1…

HORRIBLE HORRIBLE HORRIBLE

This team can’t get out of it’s own way right now..

Should’ve known it was OVER when Frenchy blew it with the Bases Loaded

By Eman

June 20, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this

“Road disaster averted” now they’re starting a home disaster

“braves need to make a stand” but don’t feel like doing it this series.

gain a game in the division? Lol that can wait

By Glenn

June 20, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this

I have attended my last Braves game until Bobby decides that Frenchy is not the right fielder of the future. He has hurt this team more this year than any one else.

By prattvillenolzfan

June 20, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this

Simpson just mentioned that Bennett has pitched everyday this week except for tuesday….

I guess Cox put in Bennett so us bloggers would ease up on Franceour some……..

By N8

June 20, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this

That’s about the ONLY way 6-4-3 was gonna get on base.

I don’t wish injury on anybody, but if it takes an injury to get him to sit and “clear his head”, so be it.

By Efrim

June 20, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this

Maybe that Hit by pitch will allow Bobby to rest Jeff tomorrow. He sure needs some rest.

By StingerSplash

June 20, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this

Thattaway to step into one, Frenchy. Atta boy. Don’t rub it.

By Mark T.

June 20, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this

call me crazy but are Brave fans at the game cheering? Maybe because that saved us from watching Francoeur make a weak out

By Braveheart

June 20, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this

Bravesdave, I don’t know how anyone can rationalize the Ridgway for Stockman move. Completely absurd.

But it’s gotten beyond tiresome reading the Anderson and Stockman posts. Everyone will love them until Stockman gets hammered a time or two and then they’ll say why is Cox using him? Why didn’t he use someone else? As fast as Anderson is, is as fast as they’ll get sick of Anderson

It’s like listening to Rain Man reading post after post after post about Corky, Anderson, and Stockman.

Wapner, Corky, KMart, Anderson, Charlie Babbit, Stockman, Wapner, Corky, KMart, Anderson, Charlie Babbit, Stockman

By geauxbraves2000

June 20, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this

If the Braves lose, it’s on JF. I’m actually surprised he didn’t swing at the pitch that hit him.

I’m out, nite all.

Geaux Braves!!

By AA

June 20, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this

This is getting REALLY hard to watch. Jeff Bennett comes in and gives up hit after hit. But yet he somehow finds himself on the mound everyday in a key situation. It almost seems that they are trying to lose.

By Coach (Put up, shut up, do or die)

June 20, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

We are watching the beginning of the end.

By Supes

June 20, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

I think Bennett is showing signs of fatigue. He’s got 35 appearances already, not even the ALL STAR break.

Skip said it best…at some point…all of the Braves pen will need some rest. What then?

Another quality start by Campillo wasted due to inept offense. Had men on base and couldn’t get any of them in to increase the lead when they had the chance to do so.

By Coach Smith

June 20, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

I have seen enough of BENNETT for a while…

Sometimes the SAVE doesn’t come happen in the 9th sometimes it is earlier…

GONZO should’ve maybe been in there..

We don’t have the luxury of trying to hang onto a 1-Run lead and then let Gonzo pitch the 9th

He is the only big time reliver we’ve got

By Robert

June 20, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this

Could a person reasonably have been expected to KNOW that Jeff Bennett was not the answer tonight - NO

To the Cox apologists, that’s the end of the discussion and it’s not Cox’s fault

But you gotta look deeper. Ask yourself - Self, is it not uncanny that if a wrong coice can be made, Cox makes it.

It’s like he has no SENSE that reliever X might not be the answer in this given situation on this particular night.

So I rephrase my original musing. Could a person reasonably have been expected to SENSE, or have a HUNCH, that Bennett might be the answer tonight?

As Jack Nicholson said in a Few Good Men - You’re G^&D RIGHT!

That’s the manager’s job

In other words, you can not indict Cox by second guessing every individual bullpen move that backfires, because he couldnt KNOW

But when nearly EVERY bullpen move backfires, you dang sure can and SHOULD indict Cox because - well, noone can be wrong by accident that often.

He has no feel for the game when it comes to in-game strategy

By Jerald Holcombe

June 20, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this

This game is a great example of why you should never get too high on the Braves. Just when you think you are about to get to play someone that is more down on their luck than you are, you get what we are seeing tonight. It’s the 80’s all over again.

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this

CHIPPER OUT WITH reaggravated right quadriceps

By Leigh

June 20, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this

Good thing we sent Stockman down. Lets just keep using Bennet and Acosta and we won’t have to worry anymore about 1 run games as ther won’t be any; just poundings!

By Braveheart

June 20, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this

Classic Bobby Cox move.. He waits until Capillo (who doesn’t have his best stuff tonight) gave up run #2 with runners on 1st&2nd. What ever happened to “holding” the other team until we take the lead?

Correct me if I’m wrong but you are the very same guy who rants every day about Cox anytime he uses Acosta, Bennett, Ring, Ridgway, Soriano, Boyer, Carlyle, etc., ain’t ya?

So, according to your logic, Cox is a dunce because he uses those relievers but Cox is a dunce as well because he doesn’t remove the starters so that he can use those relievers that you hate so much.

By prattvillenolzfan

June 20, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this

Guys (& McFann)…..

I’ve mentioned 3 times this past week now that Chipper has dropped below 400 he needs to sit a few games…..If not, He’ll be out sooner…..Looks like it might just be………….

By Efrim

June 20, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this

Strained right quad for Chipper. Maybe a days rest tomorrow will do him some good. I’d keep Frenchy out as well.

By Interested Observer

June 20, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this

The Braves should name DOB as the manager, with the blog as his bench coach.

By Ryan Seacrest

June 20, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this

Prattvillenolsfan

Your 9:28 post.

Thank you.

By braves70

June 20, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this

Hopefully after being hit by that pitch, the Braves can place the JF the outomatic on the 60 day DL. Would be best for all involved including us.

By LuisGuillermo

June 20, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this

Why did Chipper leave the game??

By Supes

June 20, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

Great…the wrong player gets injured. Chipper Jones, strained right quad…again! Damn it. I know the team needs him in the lineup, but he’s gotta sit for a few games and get healthy, or healthier than he did the other time he had that (2 weeks ago?)

Jeff Francine is fine btw…I would trade that injury right now. I’d trade Chipper and FRANCINE’s places. FRANCINE can sit for a week and Chipper can be healthy and playing everyday.

By LT-AA Blogger

June 20, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

This team’s offense is just absolutely terrible.

Crazy…. it’s the one thing coming into the year that I thought was a given.

Shows you what I know…… As much maligned as Franceour has been, I still think Texeria deserves the brunt of the blasting. Dude does something like once a week. He’s supposed to be a $20 mil a year player. LOL….

The Braves clean up spot has been vacant for quite a few years now.

By Efrim

June 20, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this

CHIPPER OUT WITH reaggravated right quadriceps

And where is the roof of this building?

By Robert

June 20, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this

“What a shame my favorite team has to be managed by this sub par decider!”

Calling Bobby Cox a sub par decider is like referring to Hiroshima and Nagasaki as small explosions

By NCBravesFan

June 20, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

The pattern with the Braves is that there is no pattern. No consistency, especially on offense.

Unless these guys kick it up a notch, it sure looks like what we’ve seen the first 70 games is what we’re gonna get.

By StingerSplash

June 20, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this

The Mariners couldn’t score with Lindsay Lohan and they are lighting up the scoreboard now. This is bad.

By AA

June 20, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this

down 7-1 to the lowly mariners. Yup, stick a fork in us. Better to look forward to next year as hard as it is to say

By Coach (Put up, shut up, do or die)

June 20, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this

8-1 Mariners, game over. Time to go rent a movie.

By N8

June 20, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this

Don’t care what anybody says. This team ain’t doin’ NOTHING this year.

They don’t have it in them. They don’t have the leadership, and they simply put, are out-manned on the field.

Trade 6-4-3 AND Tex and Go Braves in 2009!

By Coach Smith

June 20, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this

I’m getting tired of the “bullpen needs rest” excuse

In the 5 games between the last one in Chicago through the game in Colorado, the starters all pitched deep into the games (including a complete game by Campillio)

If they can’t manage an inning or two then they don’t need to be here..

That gave them 5 days of “little” work to rest up

8-1 at home to the worst team in baseball

Now you have to win the next 5 at home to have a good/successful homestand

By zbpike

June 20, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this

We are HORRIBLE!!

By Robin

June 20, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this

Folks, we’re gonna be lucky to get even a game in this series. Had our chance to kick these guys while they’re down, instead, we’ve breathed new life into them.

Meanwhile, the Phils are losing …again. So much for gaining any ground there.

By Robert

June 20, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this

“So, according to your logic, Cox is a dunce because he uses those relievers but Cox is a dunce as well because he doesn’t remove the starters so that he can use those relievers that you hate so much”

NO!

Cox is not a dunce because most every reliever he has seems to be failing these days

The correct statement, reflecting proper logic is, rather that most every reliever he has is failing these days in large part because Cox is a dunce

By McFann©

June 20, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this

McCann really looked ticked after that stolen base.

By StingerSplash

June 20, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this

And there is any logic for the Braves to have four (4!) lefthanders in the pen?

By brian

June 20, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this

I wonder if the Braves crappy play and seemingly hopeless run towards the playoffs reaggravated Chipper’s quadricep

By Supes

June 20, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this

Bullpen implodes…8-1 and I’m done for the night. Can’t watch anymore of that inept play. Darn it Yunel…make the throw home. FUNDAMENTALS. They’ll haunt you, and it’s a sign of a bad team. BTW…FRANCINE didn’t hustle to get that double…he just strolled over to the wall and picked up the ball…it’s time for Jeff to pack his stuff and go report to AA (where he came from) and rediscover the lost art of playing baseball!

Good night folks!

By BravesDave

June 20, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this

Braveheart, I think the difference with Stockman and Anderson is that they were given brief opportunities to contribute…….and CONTRIBUTED.

A small sample size, to be sure, but they should at least be given the opportunity to fail.

This is getting extremely ugly. Getting embarassed at home by the worst team in baseball.

By Jerald Holcombe

June 20, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

Isn’t this special!

By Coach Smith

June 20, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

COX is gonna have to have a meeting right after this game, rattle some cages, and shake things up…he HAS to let them know that this is NOT acceptable…

5 runs with 2 outs

Also WREN has to make a move happen sooner rather than later for a POWER BAT

By Efrim

June 20, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

Won’t be blogging tomorrow or Sunday because I’ll be away. Hopefully when I get back Sunday night the Braves will somehow be a game under .500. I mean, it’s the freaking Mariners.

9-1.

Sigh.

By Overlord-D-Day

June 20, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this

I still we can win this game……Bobby Cox will work his HOF magic and will get our team off the hook.

What a joke….. If there is something Im 100% of is that Bennett will hit the DL before the season is over and will have the same ending as Moylan, same goes for Boyer. Poor kids. My only advice to them would be “RUN BENNETT, RUN BOYER, RUN, AND NEVER RETURN”. They must be exhausted and there are still 100 games to go.

By Bullpen Bobby

June 20, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this

When you are using a pitcher for a single hitter, multiple times per week, you’re still using your pen up. Whether they throw one pitch in the game or 15, they still have to warm up to get in the game. The pen is tired. As I mentioned earlier, they lead MLB in reliever appearances. The pathetic offense isn’t helping at all! I can think of one pitcher that shouldn’t be tired because Bobby didn’t like using him. Phil Stockman! Oh wait! He’s back in Richmond!

You can lose tomorrow nights game with bullpen moves you make tonight!

By LuisGuillermo

June 20, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this

And now we’re getting our butts kicked by the worst team in baseball…..

By NCBravesFan

June 20, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this

Oh God … if we are destined to debate “The Curse of the Cow,” it’s going to be a long summer …

By Cooper

June 20, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this

DOB do you see a silver lining from getting stomped tonight in terms of the following:

Wren pulling the trigger on several trades - bat, arms (starter and pen) etc.

Wren perhaps talking to Bobby re: very questionable pen management.

This cannot continue or the season will be over.

The wins this past week look more like a dead cat bounce than a resurgence of any kind.

I don’t see how Wren doesn’t call the team to the carpet on this stuff including Bobby.

By SoWeGa Fanatic

June 20, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this

Somebody goofed. They put the ‘27 Yankees in Mariner unies.

By rolltideface

June 20, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this

i’m sorry but this is the funniest thing that i have seen since Dale Murphy suited up. My God this team sucks. Chipper’s hurt again? Who cares? We stunk with him. Acosta, Boyer, Bennett… none of those guys would still be pitching for ANY other team. Thank God we resigned Bobby! It’s 9 to 1 people. We are playing the WORST TEAM IN BASEBALL. You guys should be ashamed of yourselves. ABSOLUTELY PATHETIC.

By Robert

June 20, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this

“You can lose tomorrow nights game with bullpen moves you make tonight!”

A-MEN brother!!! A-frickin-MEN

By Overlord-D-Day

June 20, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this

That cow in CF has more character than our 40 man roster all together.

If didnt notice, the result of this game is the result of a bases loaded GIDP bye JF and the fly ball he didnt catch. If both those things were well executed…….well…. no need to say much more about the 2008 braves.

By BravesDave

June 20, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this

At this point, I don’t even know what to say anymore. After the 6 straight losses to the Phillies and Cubs, I had resigned myself to the fact the season was over.

I even felt a little relieved. I wasn’t so focused on making certain that I watched every pitch.

Then, a nice series in LA, a nice win in Denver…and the optimism and interest returns.

Follow that with the two losses to the Rangers and this drubbing by the Mariners and where do we go from here?

I have to believe that this team is headed for 75-80 wins and nothing more.

This season is relevant for a few storylines - Chipper, injuries to old pitchers, young pitching, and MASSIVE failure from Tex and Francoeur.

That 5-player investment in Tex is looking so awful right now.

By cabravesfan

June 20, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this

McFann- you hear your boy drop a really loud F-bomb after that throw? “ticked” might be a little mild…

By Crabby Bill

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

The answer isn’t an injured,average at best center fielder from the Reds.I bet if there’s one person in the Braves dugout tonight who believes this team will be in the playoffs it’s Bobby Cox.Frank Wren needs to look past this season (and next if Cox returns)in his decisions from now on.Bobby can’t prepare and motivate these guys anymore.It’s not a crime,he’s just given all he’s got.It’s time for new blood,past time.

By Don

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

DOB - Please give up on this team and call them out for what they are, a mediocre, underachieving (as far as some very key players who aren’t getting it done), poorly managed (over the hill manager who can’t handle a pitching staff nor have the guts to bench underperformers), underequippied (GM(s) trade and sign hurt players that have successfully made it to the DL) bunch of players that will need some significant level of retooling and attitude adjustment to become competitive. This team is not a competitor nor will be for the 2008 playoffs.

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this

ESCOBAR left game with a strained right hip flexor. He’s day to day.

Oy.

By Efrim

June 20, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this

Well at least Myrtle Beach is up 22-3!!!

Tyler Flowers, Gorkys Hernandez and Brandon Hicks are beasts.

By Coach Smith

June 20, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this

The Phillies lost again too…It is starting to look like the team that STINKS the least will win the division, NOT the team that wins the most….

Another problem with this GAME is that it could give the MARINERS MOMENTUM for the rest of the series

I hope not because the BRAVES HAVE to WIN the next 2

By GIDP

June 20, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this

This hurts, how can we lose like this to the worst team in baseball. No Heart, No Hustle, Maybe tomorrow we need to see a “B” squad, atleast they’ll have something to play for.

By Jeff321

June 20, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this

Correct me if I’m wrong but you are the very same guy who rants every day about Cox anytime he uses Acosta, Bennett, Ring, Ridgway, Soriano, Boyer, Carlyle, etc., ain’t ya?

From my recollection, the only relievers I’ve complained about this year are: Acosta, Bennett, and Boyer… And Bennett is clearly the best out of the three. Which really isn’t saying much since they’re all nothing but mop up guys.

So, according to your logic, Cox is a dunce because he uses those relievers but Cox is a dunce as well because he doesn’t remove the starters so that he can use those relievers that you hate so much.

Well, Cox is guaranteed to make multiple donkey-like decisions a game. So, its really just a matter of which one I decide to harp on. I mean, all you have to do is acknowledge that Frenchy’s played every game but one to know something is just not right with the management.

By lilman

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

Tonight is the first time that Carlyle has pitched since June 10, and Bennet has pitched 6 times since June 10, including tonight. How is that the best use of the pen?

By Mike Hampton's Offshore Bank Account

June 20, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this

There is absolutely no accountability in Braveland. This once proud franchise is sleep-walking through another June just like its’ fat overrated Manager. No one can disturb the “perfect clubhouse” with no music and a poly anna smile and attitude for everyone. What this team needs is new leadership and someone to put a foot up the asses of these overpaid losers. I have spent several thousand dollars supporting this franchise but will not buy another ticket or burn another gallon of gas to see this bunch until Cox is sent packing and someone is finally held accountable for this lackluster malaise that is the Atlanta Braves. Cox lovers, spare us the long droning posts citing numbers that were achieved due to longevity. If I sat on the assembly line for 30 years, I would crank out big numbers just by being there. Of course the players love him, he’s the senile grandfather who will let the kids play in the street. This man is too stupid to manage a major league team.

By Braveheart

June 20, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this

Francoeur did not hustle for that ball in the corner and the guy should have had a triple. Escobar did not come up throwing on that play where Ichiro scored. Blanco dogged it out in center and someone took an extra base.

Those are three glaring examples that Cox is not inspiring this team and is no longer scaring them either. Looks like he is losing them. If he’s losing them, then that ain’t good because let’s be honest, having a hold on his team is his biggest strength. In game strategy certainly isn’t.

And to be honest, KJ looked like he half-a*******ssed that tag at second on that poor throw by McCann. Blanco again dogs another ball in center - that’s three today

And where’s the leadership? Is there a veteran leader on this team? Joe Simpson tells some stupid story about Chipper having all this knowledge about hitting but doesn’t share it with his younger teammates unless asked and buffoons get impressed by that? That’s leadership to you?

Let’s be honest. Chipper is a Hall of Famer. Chipper has never been and never will be a leader. Still the rookie who got told to shut up and who still doesn’t find it his place to speak unless he’s throwing a former teammate and a current teammate under the bus with six words

Lose a Chipper, gain a leader

By Robert

June 20, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this

The sun rises and sets

Fish swim

Cox makes donkey-like decisions

SSDD

By Robert

June 20, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this

The sun rises and sets

Fish swim

Cox makes donkey-like decisions

SSDD

By DirtyDawg

June 20, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this

Somehow I knew that the Mariners problems and firings this past week would mean they would come in here and get well against us.

If tonight’s any indication, we’re gonna have to get rid of that damn cow before ‘it’ can do any more harm. Sorry Truett, but the ‘curse of the dairy cow/ad symbol’ could also mean doom for your chicken restaurant.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

June 20, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this

Alright, it is time to say it. Stick a fork in these boys because they are done! Real DONE!

First order of business is to see if they can trade Tex. The Angels are the obvious choice. Perhaps, Kotchman, Rivera or Willits, and a solid top tier prospect will get it done. Maybe give Boston a ring if Big Papi isn’t able to come back. See if the Sox will give up Masterson along with Coco Crisp perhaps? Hell, give the Orioles a call and see what they are willing to give up.

Next order of business will be to trade Tim Hudson. I think the Yankees are the perfect fit. See if the Yanks will give up Ian Kennedy and Robinson Cano. If not Cano, see if the Yanks will give up another pitcher along with one of their top prospects. The Red Sox are also a possibility. Maybe they will give up Masterson and Crisp for Hudson. If Zambrano is out for a length of time see if the Cubs will give up Sean Marshall and Matt Murton and roll the dice and see if their top 2B prospect will be available. Another possibility is the Dodgers. Perhaps, Ethier or Loney would be available.

Kelly Johnson should also be shopped. The Indians would be interested. Perhaps to the Cardinals straight up for Chris Duncan?

Its time for the kids to play. Brandon Jones should be the everyday LF. Lillibridge needs to be called up and allowed to take his knocks. Charlie Morton needs to stay in the rotation.

This season is over. If you can’t beat the likes of the Mariners at home then you are just sad. Plain sad!

By keylargo

June 20, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this

Lillibridge has to get a call up. We can’t go with Infante at SS.

By TennesseePaul

June 20, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this

What a bad game… I’ve read through these posts. I’m amused by many… especially the idea that the players might think tonights play was acceptable. Ha! Like they intended to go out there and get their @sses handed to them by the worst team in the game. Legen
Wait for it…

By Section 412

June 20, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this

As Peachtree TV was fading out to their final commercial, just after the end of the game, Skip didn’t know they were still on the air and said “That’s almost embarassing.” Tell it, Skip.

By Dustin Robinson

June 20, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this

What a pathetic game. Crushed 10-2 by the worst team in baseball, and it all started with Jeff Suckcoeur choking again with the bases loaded. I have never seen a player negatively impact a game so much like Francoeur when he’s up in clutch at-bats.

By MAV

June 20, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this

Braveheart,

You’re an IDIOT. Lose a Chipper and lose a hall of famer. Obviously you are a genious.

By Coach Smith

June 20, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this

Let’s not start with the whole “this team needs a massive re-tooling” OR “Rebuild”

The fact is, THIS TEAM AS A WHOLE IS YOUNG ALREADY

Right now you are YOUNG AT: Catcher, SS, 1B, 2ndBase, RF, CF, LF(depending),

4 of your new starters are YOUNG with Jair, Campillo, Morton, and JOJO,…Gonzo, Boyer, and Soriano are young…as well as some players on the bench PRADO etc

Chipper is the “old man” but he is hitting nearly .400

This team, no matter how ANGRY they make us, only needs a piece here and there (some tweaking) NOT AN OVERHAUL

I still say they need someone like RON GANT as a bench coach or something….because he WOULD NOT put up with this crap…they need some FIRE, some PIZZ and Vinegar from someone who is NOT AFRAID to call people out

By Jarvis

June 20, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this

Kudos to Skip for two comments:

1. Francoeur looks like Andruw did last year.

2. After he thought they were off the air he muttered, “That’s almost embarrassing. Sort of sums it up nicely.

By Matt

June 20, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this

What a pathetic spectacle. A blowout loss against a team that has LOST NEARLY TWICE AS MANY GAMES AS IT HAS WON!!! My hopes for this season are going down the drain very quickly. Unless some changes are made, this team will finish below .500.

By Don

June 20, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this

Cox interview after the game

“Insert Name” made some really good pitches tonight, he just had some tough bounces and bad luck.

“Insert Name” hit the ball really hard tonight, things just did’t fall.

We were in it til the end and just had some bad breaks and the game just got away from us. Acouple of breaks and we would be in it right there at the end.

By prattvillenolzfan

June 20, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this

Geez…

I leave for 30 minutes to go pick my daughter up from the movies and when I come back the friggin mariners…The FRIGGIN MARINERS scored 7…..SEVEN runs…..

……………Holy Cow………….

By Arriba Clemente!

June 20, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this

Tyler Yates gets the win for Pittsburgh tonight — 2 innings of hitless relief. Muchas gracias, Bravos!

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

June 20, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this

When a team plays like this for what is honestly going on 4 years now something is not right. Yes, they won the division in 2005 but that was more from the fact the rest of divsion sucked a* than it was the Braves were actually a good team. The fact is this team has been mediocre for a long time and its lack of fundamentals is inexcusable and downright scary. That isn’t the fault of the players. That is the fault of the manager. While some of the players have been here the whole time, not all of them have. I realize Cox is a hall of famer but lets get real. John Gibbons got fired because his team is four games under .500. Willie Randolph got fired when his team was one game under. This crap about Cox’s “pedigree” just isn’t cutting it anymore. This is going on four years of mediocre play at best and a team where the majority of the players play when they want to and sleepwalk through the rest.

I want someone to honestly tell me how many managers would still be running Francoeur out there when after three years he hasn’t progressed at all. Hell, he’s regressed. I want the name of one manager. How many managers would allow these half-assed performances to take place without some paint peeling team meetings taking place?

Exactly. Look at Seattle. McClaren lost control of that team and the players were just going through the motions and he got canned.

I’m not saying Cox should be fired but JS and Wren need to have a “come to Jesus” meeting with him and make it clear he needs to get his a* and his players’ asses in gear or changes will be made!

By BravesinTN

June 20, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this

Five words: When does football season start?

By Eman

June 20, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this

feel sorry for people who waste money and go see this team

economy isn’t great, gas prices stink.

spend family time in other ways. relax in other ways. Why should you care about a team who doesn’t?

By keylargo

June 20, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this

Yeah you have Dustin. You saw AJ last year and Jeff F. has the exact same problem. He can’t handle the pressure of playing for a contract. He is doing exactly what AJ did - fall flat on their faces when it’s produce for pay time.

By Robert

June 20, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this

“If he’s losing them, then that ain’t good because let’s be honest, having a hold on his team is his biggest strength. In game strategy certainly isn’t”

June 20, 2008 10:27PM - Blogger Braveheart has an epiphany

On another note - tomorrow’s headline about tonight’s game “Stupid Man Does Stupid Things”

By Efrim

June 20, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this

Robert(CITB)

Lets take it easy with the rebuilding. Tex and Ohman are the ONLY pieces on this team that could be shopped for younger players. We already have young players. If you think they should be traded for other younger players or veterans, than fine. But Tim Hudson isn’t going anywhere. Neither is Kelly Johnson.

Of course, Tex to the Angels if we are several games out at the deadline might be something to think about. But do you see management EVER giving up? I don’t.

By Ron Roberts

June 20, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this

The bullpen looked flat-out gassed tonight. Jeff Bennett needs damn-near a week off. Bobby’s used/abused this guy and there’s no juice left in that orange. Let it rest, already.

Even Campillo, with only 2 ER through six, didn’t look sharp per se. He was getting hit and hit hard, but was wriggling out of situations most of the night.

All-in-all, we have the starting pitching necessary to win; but this ineptitude from Francoeur and Big Tex are a drag on the lineup. The whole idea of getting Tex was to have he and Chipper as switch-hitters anchoring the middle of the order, enabling us not to struggle against lefties the way we had (and still do apparently).

Hate to say it, but Francoeur’s costing us ballgames much the way Andruw was last year. He’s been up in far too many clutch situations and making immature decisions. He’s been in the bigs long enough, now, to know better; when you’re up with the bases loaded in a tight game - the pressure’s on the pitcher who got himself into that jam. His flailing at first and/or early pitches only relieves the pitcher of that pressure.

Francoeur’s not matured, mentally, and its costing this team.

Tex? Ehh, could this be yet another contract-year Tomahawk-choke?

By T

June 20, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this

Nice Game Braves!

America’s most frustrating team continues to not disappoint.

Geez……..

By bravos2249

June 20, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this

I’d have to think the reason Chipper doesn’t share knowledge with guys unless the ask is that some guys think they can do it all without help from him. They don’t think to ask him for help. Just like Joe pointed out Maddux wouldn’t tell other pitchers unless they asked. Mac asked Chipper after Chipper scored about the pitcher, and Joe clearly pointed that out to hint that Mac asked and Frenchy didn’t. He didn’t use names, but it’s obvious that’s what he meant. Regardless of left or right asking wouldn’t hurt. But if you don’t ask then why should someone offer to help when you don’t openly admit you need it, we always see Tex picking Chipper’s brain so he does ask.

By Shamus Thacker

June 20, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

Least we still got Hex and Stenchy!

By Coach Smith

June 20, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

Ron Roberts

You said: Hate to say it, but Francoeur’s costing us ballgames much the way Andruw was last year.

I would argue that Francouer is doing FAR WORSE

At least AJ still got nearly 30 HRs and 100 RBIs…Frenchy isn’t anywhere near the pace for those numbers

EFRIM

thank you for your 10:49 post…I agree…READ MY 10:37pm post…

if you look at the breakdown this team as a whole is VERY young already..and this management/ownership is NEVER going to give up…

My only wish is that if WREN is going to make a move for a POWER BAT, a reliver, a starter, whatever, that he do it SOON ENOUGH TO MATTER

By mark

June 20, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this

Im telling yall Braves need coaching changing I think Cox is even better at burning his bull pen than ever before…His moves never work any more and rest of coaching other than Hubbard are not performing either…Bobby Please step aside after this season do it with pride..dont be greedy

By bravos2249

June 20, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this

keylargo

only problem is Frenchy was actually offered a contract

By blake

June 20, 2008 11:04 PM | Link to this

I just want to say that ‘Mike Hampton’s Offshore Bank Account’ is the best alias I have ever seen on any blog any where.

Is DOB on? Any word on Hoss?

By David O'Brien

June 20, 2008 11:05 PM | Link to this

Chipper’s got an egg-sized knot on his right thigh, said it’s worse this time than the original injury. He expects to be out at least two or three days.

Escobar limping pretty bad afterward, doesn’t know if he’ll be ready tomorrow, but doubtful

By keylargo

June 20, 2008 11:15 PM | Link to this

Bravos2249

Yes, JF was offered a contract but he and his agent turned it down in hopes of a larger one. He is playing this year for that contract or arbitration.

His agent is Scott Boreass by the way.

By Anders

June 20, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this

Efrim

Braves management should just swallow their pride and start a bidding war for Tex. I’m telling you the Yanks and Red Sox would bid high if for no other reason than to keep him from the other guy. I think there would be a another team or two who would try to get in on it as well. (Not the Mets because they don’t have available what it would take to trade for him.)

BTW- If they’re not offered what they want then they pull him back. Tex is mature enough to understand how this works.

By Bravesfan79

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

No Way Smoltz should be made to go on all the road trips this season!

Wouldnt it be best to just let him rest so he can pitch next season? I think Smoltz has earned that right!

Man the Braves need new leadership at the top so bad its not even funny. Why not make Bobby “head cheerleader” and leave the in game strategic decisions to another coach?

Oyea…..dont allow Cox to make any more roster moves as well.

Redmen given chance after chance, Woodcrap was kept around a whole season, i hoped for the best this season but just more terrible roster moves. Choosing Corky miller (the supposid defensive specialist that plays defense once a week and bats .070) OVER Pena, and Lopez.

Not to mention that move caused Escobar to loose focus a little mentally (LIKE I PREDICTED) especially on long road trips were the person your used to hanging out with 90% of the time is no longer there. I could tell a difference in Escobar almost right after Pena was let go.
If a person is happy at work, thell perform better…end of story.

Go Braves…. ill stick to my story that i can see the Braves winning it all NEXT season….in Smoltz’s last season!

2009 will also be a good year for GT Mens Hoops!

I would say the same thing for UGA football, but i dont trust the BCS to get it right. Besides its about time the SEC got the shaft in the big game (something the PAC 10, BIg Ten, and Big Twelve all agree on)
I mean u cant blame them for getting tired of getting beat down by the best conference in the land!

College Football….all HYPE….little action!
Thank God im from a place like Atlanta were we have more to cheer for than that joke of a sport.

By blake

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

Thanks for the info. Chipper needs a few days off, I hope that’s all it is though, a few days off and no DL.

By Anders

June 20, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB

Back on opening day I tried to warn you that all your cracks about the “old Mets ” and “the Mets Infirmary” would come back to bite you. I posted the great John Lennon’s lyrics to “Instant Karma”.

I believe it got you.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

June 20, 2008 11:24 PM | Link to this

So, if Chipper and Escobar are out tomorrow that means Infante will play SS and Norton at 3B unless some common sense is envoked and Hernandez or Lillibridge are called up and one of the EIGHT relievers are sent down. Yeah right. Norton is hitting .185, get ready. Your boy will be at 3B tomorrow night.

How does this lineup strike you? Blanco, Johnson, McCann, Tex, Norton, Francoeur, Norton, and Infante. I’m sure the Mariners are shaking in their worst record in the majors boots!

By keylargo

June 20, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this

Bravos2249

I’m no expert on the contracts but this is close to the way it is. Young players not yet eligible for arbitration can be renewed for a modest increase from the previous years contract whether the player likes it or not.

Francoeur was offered a contract similar to the one McCann signed and turned it down. He was renewed for a small raise from the previous years’ contract. He is not signed past this year and will be elibible for arbitration.

By Josh

June 20, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this

Francoeur’s actually represented by Career Sports & Entertainment I believe. Agents aside, it’s one thing to be patient with a player through their 0-3 years, when there is plenty of other talent on the team to allow for that. But if Francoeur doesn’t start living up to his abilities he’s going to go from turning down a multi-year contract to a candidate for being non-tendered…at least I should hope so. The arm is there, the natural talent is there, but unless he can parlay that into at least league-average production he needs to be let go before he gets expensive…I’m sure RBIs and Gold Gloves hold more weight than they should in arbitration hearings.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

June 20, 2008 11:39 PM | Link to this

Anders, I completely agree. The Braves management is dillusional if they think this team with its current leadership can win this division. They do need to swallow their pride and begin a bidding war. Now, I’m not so sure the Red Sox would be in on it simply because they may not be willing to give up the players it would take for Tex. They would really have no incentive to resign him since Youklis is at 1B and Big Papi will be the DH. Not to mention one could argue the Sox could still win the World Series without Big Papi. But, the Yankees are a different story. Get them, the Angels, and maybe even the Dodgers and Orioles and see who is willing to give up the most. The Angels have Kotchman, Figgins, Willits, Rivera, and a bounty of propsects. The Yanks have Ian Kennedy, Robinson Cano, and a good stock of prospects. The Dodgers have Loney, Kemp, Ethier, and LaRoche. The Orioles have a plethora of good pitching along with Markakis.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

June 20, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this

Well, at the rate he is going I don’t think Frenchy will be getting too much from arbitration. He should’ve taken that contract when he got the chance because now with each and every passing days the likelihood of him getting a contract offer lessens.

By Bobby Owns The Braves

June 20, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this

No matter how much we all scream, Bobby will never be let go. He’ll leave when he decides to retire. He’s like a supreme court justice, he’s here for life. Like some justices, he’ll still be making decisions when he’s too senile to tie his shoes.

That’s the price the Braves have paid for that World Series Championship and those division titles.

For some reason, Bobby isn’t going to be held accountable for his lack of performance. His past record has bought him a lifetime pass from the Braves front office.

Someone earlier said it best, Bobby has lost the team. When they aren’t playing fundamentally sound baseball anymore, that has to be laid on the manager. Sorry Cox fans, that’s the way it works everywhere else in the baseball world. When the team is underperforming, the manager is responsible. But of course, Atlanta isn’t like “everywhere else” in baseball.

By Josh

June 20, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this

In re:11:36 I’m not advocating non-tendering Frenchy after this season but if his current production doesn’t improve, and ‘09 looks more like ‘06 & ‘08 than ‘05 & ‘07 then it’s something the Braves are going to have to consider…whether the marketing folks like it or not.

By AZBravoFan

June 20, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this

I have to agree, BC is just floundering with the bullpen. Back in the days when the Braves were good, he didn’t really have to worry about it. Maddux, Glavine, Smoltz, and (insert 4th or 5th starter - Avery, Leibrandt, Smith, Neagle, Millwood….) would go 7. Then all you had to do was bring in the set-up guy, then the closer. Often they would even go 8 or 9 so he didn’t even have to think about bullpen management. At worst someone went 6 so you had to use 2 set-up guys to get to the closer. But now that the starters are not quite as reliable, using the bullpen takes a little finesse. Takes a little more than the “atta-boy” approach. I’ve been a Bobby apologist for some time, but I have to admit, I’m getting to the end of my rope now too. It’s not all on him, but man!

By prattvillenolzfan

June 20, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this

HEY ROBERT

Seeing how you have Norton hitting BOTH 5th & 7th, the line-up wouldn’t work….

You would probably have Norton in LF, Infante @ Short, and Gotay @ 3rd…

Of course we could send Ridgeway down and call up Lillibridge…..

By keylargo

June 20, 2008 11:51 PM | Link to this

My apologies to JF and Josh. Josh was correct that JF is represented by Career Sports and Entertainment.

By Anders

June 20, 2008 11:52 PM | Link to this

Robert Papi is not going to age well. Can you say Mo Vaughn? And no one loves Manny more than me but he’s 39. Youkilis can play 4 different positions so you don’t pass on a guy like Tex to keep him at first. And the bonus is they keep him away from the Yanks. Not saying it’s a lock but I actually think the Sox are more likely to trade for him than the Yanks right now. The Yanks are gearing up for CC with the Indians. Bottom line is this is not a secret middle of the night type of deal - Braves mgt need’s to create a feeding frenzy and then strike.

By Greg Norton is hitting .182

June 20, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this

Greg Norton never got a chance to bat tonight. Thanks Gotay! How unfair. Now

GREG NORTON IS STILL BATTING .182

Per DOB.

By David O'Brien

June 21, 2008 12:00 AM | Link to this

Josh, non-tendering Francoeur? No, my friend. Not happening. A 24-year-old player, regardless of how he’s struggling now, is not going to be non-tendered in his first year of arbitration, after two 100-RBI seasons and a Gold Glove during his first two full years in the majors. Not the way it works.

By bravos2249

June 21, 2008 12:03 AM | Link to this

Jeff isn’t represented by Boras

text to be linked

By David O'Brien

June 21, 2008 12:05 AM | Link to this

Bravesfan79, Smoltz doesn’t have to go on a single trip or even attend a single game if he doesn’t want to. Absolutely does not. He’ll do it because he wants to, and it’ll probably be at least another couple trips before he thinks of going on the road.

I talked to him a little after the game tonight. He’s hurting. Can’t do anything. Was struggling to pull on his socks one-handed. I told him, Dude, you’d be excused for wearing sandals only for a while. Or just wear loafers and no socks.

Talked to him about watching Tiger in the Open. Smoltz knew exactly how bad Tiger was hurt, which he said it made it all the more fascinating for him to watch his pal over the course of that tournament.

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

June 21, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this

Its not all Bobby’s fault. Some of it belongs to the players. However, ultimately, it all lies at Bobby’s feet. And, the thing is this kind of crap has been happening for a long time and many players have come and gone through the doors at Turner Field. So, it is largely not the players but the manager. I love Bobby Cox to death! BUT, I think its time we all start to admit that he is losing his touch. This reminds me of Tom Landry with the Dallas Cowboys back in the mid-80s. He always had the teams to get to the Super Bowl but never got them there. Then, it went from failing to make the Big Game to simply failing to do anything fundamentally sound. Those guys were just going through the motions. I remember how much Jerry Jones was hated for having the audacity to fire Landry but in the end he was right. A new voice needed to be implemented. Same thing with the Pittsburgh Steelers. I realize those are football teams but the message is the same. Even the best coaches lose their touch.

Cox’s approach was successful for a long time. However, it simply isn’t successful anymore. This Gomer Pyle “golly gee” mentality isn’t cutting it.

I hate to pour on Francoeur but he is the prime example of Cox’s losing touch. Of all the top managers in the game how many would’ve stuck with Frenchy as long as Cox has without sending him down. Hell, Pinella sent down Rich Hill who had two really good seasons. As I just mentioned, Pinella wouldn’t have. Neither would’ve Sciosica. Not Girardi. Not Wedge. Not Leyland. Lord knows not Ozzie Guillen. Not Manuel. Not LaRussa. Not even Torre.

Bobby Cox acts like Frenchy is just going through a little 10 day slump or something. Of course, he did the same thing with Andruw. Now contrast that to Joe Torre. How long did it take Torre (who is often way too patient) to bench Andruw’s fat a*?!

By bravos2249

June 21, 2008 12:12 AM | Link to this

keglargo

excuse my post then but that is a link to what Frenchy said about not siging a bigger contract

By Chop Chop

June 21, 2008 12:14 AM | Link to this

(This one goes out to Shamus Thacker.)

HEX AND STENCHY

(as sung to the tune of Sinatra’s “Love and Marriage”)

Hex and Stenchy…

Hex and Stenchy…

Send them stinkin’ losers to the benchy.

Denizens ain’t happy.

The two sumbeaches are so crappy.

Hex and Stenchy

Hex and Stenchy

They’re a pair of bums you can disparage.

Ask the local bloggers

And they will say to bench those fockers!

Try, try, try to tolerate them.

It’s a delusion.

Try, try, try and you will only come

To this conclusion.

Hex and Stenchy

Hex and Stenchy

Send them stinkin’ losers to the benchy.

Cox, the fans ain’t happy.

These two sumbeaches are so crappy.

By Greg Norton is hitting .182

June 21, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this

It is important to remember that Greg Norton was the bassist for the band Husker Du. But that Greg Norton is a different person and is NOT the

GREG NORTON WHO’S HITTING .182

So please avoid this common mistake.

By Anders

June 21, 2008 12:18 AM | Link to this

DOB

We get it. Smoltz is really hurting. The guy is a warrior. Even I as a Mets fan have the utmost respect for him. But after a horrible loss like the Braves had tonight certainly you have more pertinent stuff to share than Smoltz’s pain management and his thoughts on the US Open - No?

By brian

June 21, 2008 12:19 AM | Link to this

Francouer of course will not be non-tendered but it will be interesting to see if the Braves listen to trade offers. My guess is that they will not. They have too much invested in the golden boy and his trade value is probably rock bottom right now

By David O'Brien

June 21, 2008 12:21 AM | Link to this

Couple things from end of my game story:

It was only the 15th win in 52 games since April 23 for the Mariners, who fired their general manager last week and canned their manager on Thursday. They won Friday in the first game managed by Jim Riggleman since 1999.

“For some reason I just can’t hit with bases loaded right now,” said Francoeur, hitless in his last 15 at-bats with bases loaded and 2-for-19 for the season, which is more than twice as many opportunities as any other Braves player.

“I’ve just got to keep working my [butt] off in the batting cage and the film room. It is what it is. I felt good at the plate, I really did. And I had an opportunity. I’m pissed off at myself.”

He’s hit just .219 in his past 32 games. “I feel like I’m so close to turning the corner, and for some reason I just ain’t going right now,” Francoeur said.

Atlanta has lost seven of 12 home games since a 19-3 home surge. Fortunately for the fourth-place Braves, the National League East-leading Phillies have lost seven of their last 10 games. The Braves stayed six games behind Philadelphia.

Campillo’s been a surprising success for the Braves, even if his record (2-2) doesn’t reflect it. He was charged with eight hits and four earned runs in 6-1/3 innings Friday in his seventh start since moving from the bullpen.

He has a 2.54 ERA, including 3.26 as a starter.

The last two runs on Campillo’s ledger came after Bennett gave up two singles and a sacrifice fly to the first three batters he faced. Bennett has allowed 16 hits and 10 earned runs in 6-2/3 innings over seven games in a two-week span.

“That’s the worst, when you come into the clubhouse after giving up someone else’s runs,” Bennett said. “It’s the worst feeling in the world. That’s whey you’re not doing your job, when you give up other people’s runs.”

The Mariners tacked on five runs in the eighth against usually reliable lefty Will Ohman, sending his ERA from 2.10 to 3.52.

By Anders

June 21, 2008 12:25 AM | Link to this

Frenchy’s not going anywhere nor should he. He’s better than he’s playing although as I said on here all winter I don’t think he’s the second coming of Roberto Clemente as most on here swore he was. Plus he’ll be cheap which is where Braves mgt lives.

By Jason R Puttz

June 21, 2008 12:26 AM | Link to this

Some people should be ashamed of themselves.I’ve read some terrible post related to Mike Hampton in the past months.As president of ”The international strained t** society”I can assure you it’s no laughing matter.Every year dozens of people worldwide are struck with this crippling condition.Just last month I got word that 93 year old Alice (Bunny) Phargman of Appleton Wisconsin slipped in her house and strained her right t**.Doctors say it could be days or even weeks before she can return to her regular workout schedule.So please be kind to Mike,if it could happen to Bunny,it could happen to you.

By monty

June 21, 2008 12:36 AM | Link to this

Chipper Jones is my favorite Brave but lets face reality, he is a serious injury waiting to happen. He scares me every time he has to leg out something. Tonight’s another prime example.I don’t know when his contract ends with the Braves but he may have to give serious thought to playing in the AL as a designated hitter. What good is a guy who can hit .350 or maybe even .400 if he can’t run or field without pulling something? If he could only have a pinch runner every at bat!

By StingerSplash

June 21, 2008 12:37 AM | Link to this

Letterman’s got The Baseball Project on right now, with Pete Buck on bass. Couple lines about Rose hitting Ray Fosse and Denny McClain in the song they’re performing.

By Mike Hampton's Offshore Bank Account

June 21, 2008 12:44 AM | Link to this

I’ve got a great idea, Smoltz can agree to go on the road trips if Bobby Cox and Chino agree to stay home, let Smoltzy manage the team and Donk and Chino can play backgammon at the Howard Johnson’s off I-20

By uga-brave

June 21, 2008 12:53 AM | Link to this

bravesdave,

you remember last summer when i predicted the fall of the housing market and the ripple it will cause in the investment houses.

i worked for goldman sachs for 12 years.

i told everyone to rethink where there money was. this is your last chance.

bear stearns the 5th largest invesment house in the world went down. regional banks like wachovia, sun trust, regions, and fifth third bank are listing.

cdo’s and other collateralized mortgages are going into default. the banks are trying to put band aides on them. merrill lynch might be next. they are in serious trouble.

there are only so many J.P MORGANS that can bail these guys out.

citicorp cant do it, morgan stanley cant do it.

lehman has so many problems, that they thought they had their arms wrapped around it but it turned out to be, well i guess 40 % short.

lehman brothers is real close to being insolvent.

short LEH, EASY MONEY.

By Bravo Nam

June 21, 2008 12:56 AM | Link to this

Soriano the new Mike Hampton?

More or less. Oh, apart from 6 years and $100 mill or so less damage.

Stockman

As an Aussie, I’ve been reluctant to say anything on Stocky for fear of bias…but I don’t think I could be criticised for that now. What on earth does this poor fella have to do to get some trust…it’s like my point a week or so back, BC has certain dudes in his doghouse and for whatever reason Phil appears to be one of them.

BC

Love his body of work, but lately he’s given too much credibility to Robert’s ongoing rants with some of his decision-making. Please, please man…pull your finger out…not just for the sake of the Bravos, but so that we can also put a sock in the mouth of Robert…this is agony! Two things I wish Bobby would do…every now and again give the troops a bit of fire and brimstone…and don’t be afraid to bench, rest or send favourites back to AAA, while giving those in his doghouse a more objective look.

Wren

It’s trendy to bag Wren as well, but he has done a super job to date…just look at his trades since coming onboard. The other thing he’s not doing is panicking and unloading all our young talent for quick fix situations. He’ll organise 1 or 2 trades, but he’s not going to give up the farm in the process.

Tex

Unlikely Wren will trade Tex. Three reasons: July the man historically heats things up, what’s the point trading a big bat when in fact this is one of our biggest needs, and the Braves are going to offer him arbitration at the end of the year (to secure 1st and 3rd draft picks).

Bat

The Braves biggest need is not pitching…up near the leaders in most pitching categories in NL. It’s batters…Wren is going after a hitter.

Chipper’s woes

Even with Chipper in the line-up, the Braves have been struggling. I think there are real concerns from the Front Office that Chipper is going to continue to be hampered throughout the season by his injuries and may miss as many games as he starts…the Braves are going to be looking at a significant bat.

By GeorgetownKid

June 21, 2008 1:11 AM | Link to this

Fan ire towards Jeff Francoeur is getting increasing attention, and deservedly so. He is an immensely talented player who is playing like a mediocre RF. He still has a huge arm and plays solid defense, but he is a .250 hitter with barely better than average power.

That being said, I am FAR more upset with how Mark Teixeira is playing, for he is an established star. We gave up a great deal of future talent so that we could have an All-Star callibre clean-up hitter who hit .300 with 40 HR and that hit lefties and righties equally well.

Teixeira is on pace to hit 22 HR and he is batting .260!! If he were performing like the player that we thought he was, we would have 3-4 more wins right now.

I want someone to write a column about how fans are mad at how the soon-to-be Yankees 1B who will seek $20 million per year is barely out-hitting Kelly Johnson.

By N8

June 21, 2008 1:13 AM | Link to this

Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

FANTASTIC post at 12:10.

I’ve made the Bobby Cox/Tom Landry comparison MANY times on this blog. Unfortunately for you and I, NOBODY wants to hear it.

If I recall, Chuck Tanner won a WS with Pittsburg in 1979, yet he wasn’t the “right guy” for the Braves in the late 80’s either, was he?

It’s simply time for Bobby to step down. He’s lost this team (for the 3rd year in a row), and not too much gonna turn it around this year. ESPECIALLY if Chipper and Escobar are out for anything more than a game or two.

But, he won’t. So we’ve got one more year (after this one), of this crap.

EVERYTHING this team (as long as Bobby is still here), will be compared to the 90’s Braves. That’s not fair.

It’s time for a NEW manager, a NEW coaching staff, and a NEW philosophy so this core of young talent (include 6-4-3 in that group if you want - the talent is STILL there - though it’s not being used), can find THERE OWN identity, make their ow path and start their own “history”.

As long as ANYBODY associated with the “old” regime is still around (and YES, that includes Chipper, Smoltz and Glavine), there will ALWAYS be comparisons. These kids that grew up IDOLIZING those teams, can’t do the job.

They need to be set free. There might be HUGE failure that follows (like mediocrity is any better), but enough is enough.

Time for change, and it has to start at the TOP and trickle down.

Keep in mind, that while I include Chipper in that “group”, I’m not saying he “has to go”. That would be ridiculous. But as long as there are players that played under Cox, the new manager will NOT have a fair shake at doing things HIS WAY.

If you read between the lines, you’ll understand that I’m NOT interested in ANY of the Bobby “disciples” being the next manager. NOT INTERESTED.

Needs to be NEW blood with their own thoughts and “plan”. Hell, Roger McDowell has done a fine job. But he’s “guilty by association” in my book.

PUUUULEEEEEEZ Liberty Media……do the RIGHT thing.

By A-ville Ranger

June 21, 2008 1:13 AM | Link to this

Bravo,the reason you’d trade Tex (if you did) would have little to do with whether he ”heats up” or not.If Wren doesn’t believe there’s a reasonable chance to make the post season this year AND he doesn’t plan on dealing with Scott Dildo or forking over 20 million per for Tex,then the move makes sense.I don’t care if we miss the playoffs by 5 or 20 games,a miss is a miss.As far as protecting Chipper in the lineup,same thing,I’m more concerned with getting some return for later than empty stats for one player.

By Sleepy....

June 21, 2008 1:20 AM | Link to this

Of all the things that went wrong at tonight’s game I found the traffic most frustrating.

A word to the wise: If you live anywhere in or north of the triangle formed by 575, 400, and GA 20 do yourself a favor and go to Rome for your Braves experience. I had to drive up Peachtree all the way to the Fox to find a way onto 75 or 85. I’ll be back to see the MLB Braves during the week only until the construction is over. And by the way, when they tell you to avoid the connector, what they mean is: the onramps are closed.

By Josh

June 21, 2008 1:24 AM | Link to this

DOB Definitely not advocating, hoping, or expecting the Braves to non-tender Jeff after this season, even if his poor offensive play continues for the rest of the year. I made a follow-up at 11:49 explaining as much. That stuff aside, he’s getting a pretty long leash this season. He seems like he’s really pressing with runners on, and he’s going to keep getting put in those situations if he continues to bat in the middle of the order. He needs to hit 7th or 8th, or if nothing else take a game off every now and then when the outfield gets healthy. Hopefully he gets back on track and serves me some crow!

By uga-brave

June 21, 2008 1:27 AM | Link to this

DOB,

dude you put begin the begin in my head martin luther zen.

my favorite R.E.M. song of all time.

wish they were at chastain intsead of lakewood tommorow.

we are going but i love the chastain set up.

rockville, driver 8, gardening at night.

from the new stuff, great beyond is a great tune.

whats the frequency francoeur?

matriculated in athens like i said, had jason and the scorchers, in the basement of our frat house circa 1985.

also saw the smithereens at the old uptown lounge.

1987, there was a time when you would go to the uptown, and buck and mills would be there, only about 100 or so people there and they would get on stage and play with whoever.

By GeorgetownKid

June 21, 2008 1:32 AM | Link to this

N8

Bobby Cox has had ONE losing season (in 2006). The players still adore the man and he is a huge asset in attracting free agents and in potentially keeping our own.

And regarding the oft-repeated claim that “he has lost his touch,” baseball is not a complicated game. It is not as though Vince Lombardi were trying to run his old-fashioned offense against modern zone-blitzes. Do you really think that Bobby Cox no longer knows when to bunt, when to hit-and-run, when to do a double-switch?

He is criticized for being too loyal to players which leads him to not demote them, but that style worked fine just two years ago.

The man in 67, not 107. I don’t think he is senile just yet and I think he knows the game of baseball just fine. It is not his fault that our so-called star 1B is hitting .260 and that Chipper, Smoltz, Glavine, Hampton, Moylan, Soriano et al are hurt.

This season is not going well, but we are still very much alive. And, despite it all, I am still a Cox fan. He’s a cool old dude.

By Chop Chop

June 21, 2008 1:32 AM | Link to this

N8,

I’ve been saying the same thing (not so much on here) for years. There’s nothing wrong with making a move to a new manager. Bobby’s been an all-time great here, but I just don’t think he’s connecting with these players. If he isn’t doing that (as Braveheart suggested), I don’t know what benefit Bobby is to this team. These guys aren’t showing up to work and doing their job to please Bobby like the Braves teams of the past. They’re showing up and playing like a bunch of bush-league guys who have no awareness of what needs to be done on the field. Talk is cheap. Results are not. The results are not there. I’d love for this team to succeed, but it isn’t happening. You can’t cut six or seven guys at once, so the manager has to pay the price.

However, Bobby will be here the rest of this year and next. No use worrying about where this team is going right now. They’re just playing out the string, but I’ll be right here watching them and hoping for some crazy-a* miracle to occur to inspire some hope in me.

You know why? Because I’m stupid.

And a fan.

By Robert Joseph

June 21, 2008 1:33 AM | Link to this

N8, What is this Stalinist Russia ? It’s silly to say having Chipper and Smoltz around will somehow prevent another manager from leading the team.

By Robert

June 21, 2008 1:41 AM | Link to this

Braveheart, Bravonam and AZBrave - That’s three, count ‘em, THREE long time hard CORE Cox apologists seeing the light in ONE NIGHT!

Gotta love it

And N8 - Your 1:13 is the TRUTH!

By THB

June 21, 2008 1:41 AM | Link to this

Braves shouldn’t be selling the farm, period. They have a good core of players, but they’re not clicking, and they probably won’t this year. Pitching is solid, the young guys are all doing great, but they won’t hold up. I’m not willing to trade the farm to get a veteran arm and a power bat and a solid bullpen arm. What I would do is this:

Trade Tex. The Red Sox have Lars Anderson, a 1B who is touted almost as highly as Heyward (I believe he’s 2 years older and ending the year in AA). He hits for average, power, and OBP. They also have Michael Bowden in AA, a RHP who is doing awesome and would be a sneaky but great pickup. He’s not talked about as much because of Masterson, Buchholz, and Lester. I wouldn’t mind them either, though. If we got Anderson and Bowden, that would be awesome.

If we don’t trade with the Sox, maybe the Dodgers would be a nice fit. They said they’d part with Matt Kemp for a big bat. Maybe we could get Kemp and James McDonald, who is having a very nice season in AA as a RHP. I would like Loney if we couldn’t get Kemp. Both are very young and good.

Trade for Heath Bell. Maybe an offer of Lillibridge and B.Jones? Maybe that’s too much. Lillibridge has been doing better.

That’s all I would do. If we got Kemp and McDonald, or Anderson and Bowden, along with Heath Bell, we’d be in a good spot for next year. And we wouldn’t be much worse this year.

By Robert

June 21, 2008 1:47 AM | Link to this

DOB said “Bravesfan79, Smoltz doesn’t have to go on a single trip or even attend a single game if he doesn’t want to. Absolutely does not.”

ABSOLUTELY FALSE- On the day that it was announced that Smoltz would have season ending surgery, Cox announced on live tv that he himself had told Smoltz that after the operation, he would be expected to remain with and travel with the team

By THB

June 21, 2008 1:57 AM | Link to this

Minors Update:

Richmond lost 4-1, but Lillibridge had 3 hits (He’s done better once out of the leadoff spot) and J.Perry had 2 hits. Perry is hitting .333.

Mississippi won 9-2, Schafer went 3 for 5 with 2 R, 2 doubles, 2 RBI. He’s hitting better since his slump.

Myrtle Beach is ridiculous. They won 22-3. That’s just stupid. Gorkys Hernandez continues to impress, going 3-6 with 2 doubles. He’s hitting .327 for the year. He might be ready for AA soon, but Schafer is blocking him right now. I think it’s time we consider Gorkys one of the top prospects, and possibly the future leadoff hitter for the Braves. He’s only 20 right now. Has anyone talked about Ernesto Mejia yet? He’s 22 right now, hitting .288 with 27(!) doubles, 9 HR, and a ton of RBI. He’s a right handed 1B. Flowers had 2 HR, even though he’s hitting .265, he has as many BB as K’s (46) and a .412 OBP. That’s fine in my book as long as he hits for power.

Rome had a good day, one of the few this season. They won 10-1, with Locke pitching 5.2 innings of one run ball. His ERA is down to 4.06. Heyward went 2 for 4 with 2 runs, hitting .329 for the year. Freddie Freeman went 2 for 5 with a homer, double, 2 runs, and 3 RBI. He’s hitting .289 for the year.

By uga-brave

June 21, 2008 1:58 AM | Link to this

oh by the way the french man is hitting .156 in late close games.

that is according to baseball.com

sorry DOB.

Was at the game tonight, bases loaded one out, the braves winning by a run in the 5th.

time to break the game open, guess not.

time to put the rubber to the road, francoeur has cost us at least 6 games.

DOB, did bradley think he would get that many responses?

golden boy SUCKED THE ENERGY OUT OF THE CROWD TONIGHT, NICE DP.

By TennesseePaul

June 21, 2008 2:04 AM | Link to this

the bullpen looked flat-out gassed tonight
Lost who said this… was it Robert or Ron Roberts? Stoked to see Ron Roberts on the board. Been a long time.
Any who, Bullpen gassed? The team just got off a string of games where the pen saw little work. Two games ago, Reyes goes 7. Then Bennett. Then Gonzo. Yesterday saw more pitchers, but the ones that stunk today were Bennett and Ohman. Ohman threw 1 pitch yesterday. Bennett threw 4. If that Ohman is “gaseD” after not throwing for 3 days then I don’t know what to say.
The guy just had a bad outing. I’m not making excuses for him. He sucked tonight and there’s really no reason for it. He had 3 days off, then threw 1 pitch, and then pitched the next night. That shouldn’t “gas” a relief pitcher. Especially a vet reliever like Ohman. But all players have bad outings. And tonight Ohman stunk.
I’d say the biggest complaint one can have is the continued ineptitude of Francoeur. I hope he can turn it around soon. I posted the comparison of teams above. That was the only team in the last 17 years that had a similar record after 74 games. That team had a productive outfield. This team has a terrible outfield. And the majority of the blame can be placed squarely at the feet of Francoeur because it some how doesn’t seem right to kick the guys that are injured. Francoeur has no publicly known injury. He’s just sucking right now. I hope he gets his act together. In previous years he’d have hit a slam in that bases loaded situation against a crappy team. But with Ohman’s off night it wouldn’t have mattered. 8 runs is a big hole.
I didn’t get to watch the game so I really can’t comment on the defense. If it was as bad as the reports, well then there is little excuse for it. There are a few basic fundamentals in the game. A player should be able to catch a pop up. An outfielder should be able to track a fly ball. A hitter should be able to bunt when called upon. And a pitcher should be able to throw strikes. Gameday affords me the ability to analyze results, but not circumstances. What I saw from the computer, Ohman stunk and Francoeur failed again.

I’m bummed Chipper is down again. I’m wishing he’d have taken a few more days off with the initial injury if only to keep that average over .400. Hopefully this time of rest he’ll wait until he’s fully recovered and go on a ridiculous run to get that average back up over .400… I wanna see him do it.

Ridgway has no business in the majors. If ever there was a time and a player to toss the blog slur around Ridgway is that player and any time he is on the roster is a good time… no major league talent whatsoever. I’d love to have Aybar back.

By N8

June 21, 2008 2:07 AM | Link to this

Robert Joseph

Ask yourself the following question:

How many times has a new coaching staff (in ANY major sport), took over a team, and kept one of the veterans around? And while doing so, went on to win a title WITH THEM on the team?

Listen, I’d be a fool to want Chipper and Smoltz to play for any other team. Believe me…I DON’T WANT THAT.

They both deserve to leave on their own terms and if they so choose, play their ENTIRE careers with a Tomahawk across their chest.

I’m just saying, that as long as the team is STILL centered around them (HOFr’s or NOT), a title isn’t coming anytime soon.

That is to NOT call them losers. Quite the opposite in fact. They might very well be the only two winners left on this team.

My Chiefs are doing the same thing. New coach, new coaching staff, and OTHER THAN Tony Gonzalez (who is still at the TOP of his game - like Chipper), and Brian Waters, they are ridding themselves of ANYBODY that was part of Dick Vermeil’s staff or team. But it’s taken them 3 years to do it.

Believe me, if they wouldn’t have given Larry Johnson so much damn money, they’d dump his azz too.

If a team is intent on winning NOW and changes managers, then YES, you keep guys around that can still contribute.

I’m VERY disturbed by the comments that somebody made earlier about Chipper and not giving advice unless he is asked by younger players.

That tells me of two possible scenarios.

1) He doesn’t want to be a vocal “leader”. I’m fine with that. The guy leads by example. But a HOF player that has won at EVERY LEVEL since little league, should be fighting mad and not stand for what is going on around him.

2) Bobby’s “style” is for his veteran players to NOT undermine his (ahem) “authority”. Thus Chipper keeps his mouth shut, just like he was told when he was a rookie (allegedly). That was the beginning of the end, for Chipper being a vocal leader.

If I’m the manager of this team, I stand up on DAY ONE of spring training and point to Chipper and DEMAND that everybody keeps up with him in terms of preparation and work ethic. If nobody is willing to do that, get rid of them.

I also DEMAND that Chipper be open and available to all and any young players (which I’m sure he is). It’s part of his JOB to at least lead the young guys.

But then again, Chipper and Smoltz are of a different breed. Hard to expect anybody to keep up with them and work the way they do.

GeorgetownKid

“Bobby Cox has had ONE losing season (in 2006). The players still adore the man and he is a huge asset in attracting free agents and in potentially keeping our own.”

REALLY? What free agents have STAYED recently? Which ones have COME HERE recently? As for the players “adoring” him? Sure they do. I used to love it when my parent went out and would leave me with a babysitter that wouldn’t have any rules, other than “don’t die while I’m here”.

As for the one losing season? Didn’t Flip Saunders and Avery Johnson just get fired after MAKING THE PLAYOFFS??? Bobby’s teams haven’t SNIFFED a world series since 1999. That’s almost 10 years dude.

As a fan, I gave up winning division titles being “good enough” a LONG time ago. I bet if you asked Chipper and Smoltz they’d say the same thing. (though like the rest of us will look back on it years from now and realize how amazing it was - yet will NEVER forget the disappointments and choke jobs).

“And regarding the oft-repeated claim that “he has lost his touch,” baseball is not a complicated game.”

This group of young players are NOT the same type of players that bent over backwards playing for Cox in the past. So while he might not have “lost his touch”, he’s OBVIOUSLY not capable of getting through to these guys.

By Chop Chop

June 21, 2008 2:16 AM | Link to this

Bobby Cox (to his players):

Respect my authori-TIE!

By Mrs Bobby Cox

June 21, 2008 2:17 AM | Link to this

Bobby is resting comfortably while watching “The Rock” for the 32nd time on HBO. He loves tht Nicholas Cage lad.

DID WE WIN?? I HOPE NOT. I WANT HIM TO RETIRE SO THAT WE CAN TRAVEL——-While he cn still walk. That walking out to the mound is going to cause him to break down.

By TennesseePaul

June 21, 2008 2:17 AM | Link to this

And one last thing… Steven Seagal… why does this guy whisper all the time? And that long hiatus between movies a while back only to come back weighing more than AJ and sporting big coats and over sized shirts in an attempt to hide the flab while he slaps at his enemies on screen… Exit Wounds is on. I can’t help but laugh at all his movies. Especially that 90’s one he filmed… what was it called? Hard to Watch?

By GeorgetownKid

June 21, 2008 2:23 AM | Link to this

N8

How long did Bill Cower with the Pittsburg Steelers go in between contending seasons? He is now the most sought-after free-agent coach in the NFL.

And regarding the issue of Cox “not getting through to these guys,” I ask you, to whom is he not getting through? Both Teixeira and Francoeur are having down seasons, but Chipper is having the season of his life. McCann is playing like an All-Star, Campillo and Jurrjens are far exceeding expectations, Reyes is showing steady improvement, and Infante is playing better than he ever has. Most everyone else is playing to their potential.

By GeorgetownKid

June 21, 2008 2:33 AM | Link to this

Tennessee Paul

I think his hiatus in between movies is due to his inability to secure financing for his increasingly laughable movies. He could really kick some arse back in the day, but I think his fight scenes involve more and more camera tricks these days.

By Robert

June 21, 2008 2:35 AM | Link to this

N8 - “2) Bobby’s “style” is for his veteran players to NOT undermine his (ahem) “authority”. Thus Chipper keeps his mouth shut, just like he was told when he was a rookie (allegedly). That was the beginning of the end, for Chipper being a vocal leader.”

Again you speak the unflattering truth. Rule number one is that the big bossdonk is in charge. Anyone who dares to challenge that or even question it is jettisoned immediately

Now as far as Bobby not getting thru to this group - there I disagree with you. The problem is not that he doesnt get thru to them - the problem is that what he has gotten thru to them is a seriously flawed take on the game

Bobby Cox hasnt changed one dang bit from the mid 90’s (heck, from the early 80’s). It’s just that it was seriously HARD to screw up thise mid-90’s teams. Maddux, Glavine, and Smoltz in their primes were very effective at minimizing the damage Cox could do - simply because with them around, he didnt have to make a lot of decisions

Now, normally, having as your basic operating principle “Do nothing” is not a great strategy for the manager of a baseball team. But with Cox, “do nothing” is optimal, because if he does anything, it ruins things

I’ll tell you something that frustrates me about Cox that I have only rarely mentioned before - he NEVER, as I can recall, has taken any responsibility for a failure

After he was fired the other day, Willie Randolph talked about being frustrated with how the Mets had fared. During that interview, he said (and I paraphrase) that if he took credit for ‘06, then he has to accept blame for the ‘07 collapse and the underachievement this year.

Cox doesnt do that. One time I’d like to hear him say “You know what? I screwed up” No, it’s always hee-haw this or hee-haw that - we got unlucky, we didnt get a break, or some other horse-manure excuse

By GeorgetownKid

June 21, 2008 2:37 AM | Link to this

That’s enough from me. Good night all (the few who are foolish enough to still be up).

By uga-brave

June 21, 2008 2:41 AM | Link to this

scary thing we miss the power.

we have not replaced his 26 dingers.

he stunk last year, but we miss the the power.

51 dingers followed by 41, 128, followed by 129 rbi.

if anyone believes the golden boy is comparable they are wrong.

he will never be able to carry his jock.

francoeur is killing us.

By uga-brave

June 21, 2008 2:59 AM | Link to this

cant make chicken salad out of chicken sh….

lots of non winners on this roster.

kelly, is a non winner, escobsr is a hot dog, our entire outfield are non winners.

at some point you gotta point the vitrol toward his roster.

he can only do so much.

braves up by one run, bases jacked and frenchy hits into a double play.

pretty muched changed the outcome? nice job superstar.

what is that 3 for 19, great job.

By Ron Roberts

June 21, 2008 3:11 AM | Link to this

TennPaul… I said the ‘pen looked gassed. But despite the lack of innings the last few games, we have some over-worked bullpen arms.

By N8

June 21, 2008 3:11 AM | Link to this

GeorgetownKid

“How long did Bill Cower with the Pittsburg Steelers go in between contending seasons? He is now the most sought-after free-agent coach in the NFL.”

Believe me, I know. MANY on my Chiefs boards are pining for Herm Edwards to be fired and to hire Cowher. Why? It took him 14 years to win the big one. Any other organization would have canned him. But the Steelers like stability. To each their own, right?

“Both Teixeira and Francoeur are having down seasons, but Chipper is having the season of his life.”

Cox is just as much to blame for 6-4-3’s trouble. He didn’t want to mess with his aggressiveness, and is NOW paying the price. Rather than TEACH him how to hit, he let the student run the class.

“McCann is playing like an All-Star”

McCann and Chipper just know how to play. Please take note that their FATHERS are the ones that instruct them on hitting. Not Bobby and or T.P. Who do they both call when struggling?

“Campillo and Jurrjens are far exceeding expectations”

Really? I’ll give you Campillo. Another scrap heap star. But Jurrjens was expected to do what he’s doing. That’s why he HAD TO be part of the Renteria trade.

“Reyes is showing steady improvement”

Yeah. After getting sent down for more seasoning (just like 6-4-3 and Boyer should).

By Robert

June 21, 2008 3:16 AM | Link to this

For those who have taken offense at my referring to your beloved manager as Donk, I propose a new nickname

Toaby - The b stands for boar

By Robert Joseph

June 21, 2008 3:16 AM | Link to this

N8 Well argued point but I don’t think think it has to play out that way.Chipper and (or)Smoltz would have whatever role a manager assigned them.If either had an ego like ”Blowup Barry Bonds”I’d agree.These guys are team players though,they’d be fine as long as they believed in the direction a manager was taking the team.If it turned out there was a clash (which I doubt)that bridge could be crossed at that time.You know the old saying ”no need in spreading lime unless you have to”.Besides Chipper knows Bobby plans to retire after next season and he’s already stated his desire to play in Atlanta till he retires.

By john

June 21, 2008 3:27 AM | Link to this

It is amazing what you folks come up with. I am done reading this blog, it only increases my negativity. i’ll read the initial DOB stuff and that is all. Relax folks.

By Robert

June 21, 2008 3:27 AM | Link to this

What is it now in one run games. 3-19?

Folks, if they could just play .500 in one run games, just let it be a crapshoot - ….

Then despite all the injuries the Braves would be leading the divison by a couple of games

A fricking sabateur couldnt “manage” to ruin things as thoroughly as Toaby does.

Would the Braves have won last night’s game if someone other than Cox had been managing? Highly unlikely. But I betcha they could’ve lost this game without maximizing their chances for losing more - i.e. they wouldnt have burnt four relievers and would’ve avoided the emotional damage from being humiliated at home by the worst team in baseball.

By Robert

June 21, 2008 3:33 AM | Link to this

Dealt a pocket pair 14 consecutive times (and seven times it was pocket aces) and he won a hand

WOW! Engrave the plaque

And now we’re griping about bad luck cuz he got dealt J-Q suited and the flop came up with an overcard

It’s comedy

By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)

June 21, 2008 4:56 AM | Link to this

Bobby’s Cox

I’m don’t know if JF’s problem with his mechanics is due to an ankle injury, I was just saying that I noticed that flaw and sometimes it is b/c of a previous ankle/foot injury that it starts too develop.

But you noticed what I was talking about as well, and I agree — the swing does look like it starts too early. Again, I don’t know anything for fact, I’m just drawing off my own experience. It appears to be a combination of small flaws that are making a mess of his swing and at-bat success. It is obviously gotten to a point where even Jeff is publicly acknowledging the problem, and that is a good sign for him. Lot’s of athlete’s have a hard time getting to that point but once you are there you can start to change that fan pressure from one of disappointment to one of support by getting back to good basics and fundamentals. Pendleton is the best man for that as long as Jeff not only listens but applies what he learns on every at-bat.

Anyway — GO BRAVOS !!!

By nolie

June 21, 2008 6:03 AM | Link to this

Very discouraging game tonight IMO. With the blunders, the blowout at home, the injuries and Chipper likely missing some games. I’m about as down tonight as I have been all season so far.

By Bill

June 21, 2008 6:37 AM | Link to this

Guy’s, like it or not this team has tanked it. All the injuries,slumps bad managing has put this team in a bad position. BC has never known how to use his bullpen but alot of it is on the starting pitchers by not going deep in the game. This bullpen is worn out. If it takes it, trade Hudson, Frenchie and Tex. Frenchie is a good kid but I think he would benefit being away from Atlanta. I would contact Wsox’s about Josh Field, he can play third,first and outfield. I know they are young but bring up Schaeffer and Gorky. Let them learn on the job. It can’t be any worse.

By BravesRule

June 21, 2008 6:50 AM | Link to this

Yeah, the game was discouraging, but this board is getting damn depressing. You come on here to talk some baseball and all you get is hour after hour of hate Cox, hate Francoeur, hate Norton. It would be nice if this were a place where you could go after a bum game to get a little hope and encouragement back, but you just get blasted with hate and arguments. Only time it’s worth getting on here is after the season is way over and much of that is still filled with hate rants. I’m sure nobody is going to miss me, but I think I’m taking a long break from this depressing he11 of a place. I feel sorry for poor Dave, he has to put up with this crap every day, no wonder he needs time off.

By ncscoots

June 21, 2008 7:01 AM | Link to this

The post I liked most last night was the one about DOB becoming the manager and the blog the bench coach. Then the blog’s posts would be like animals eating their young, I guess. How long would it take for the blog to call for replacing the blog? Over\under is one series, LOL.

Pitiful exhibition last night, agreed. Another candidate for “worst game of the year” for some bloggers (I can’t keep track of which loss was the “worst”, “season-turning”, etc., anymore, but I’m sure there’s been more than one in the eyes of the Braves/MIB, and I’m also sure there will be at least one more sometime), and an opportunity to trot out the litany of team problems, as seen by the astute baseball minds that congregate here.

Of course, the team’s problems aren’t anything that some callups, send-downs, benchings, lineup changes, and fantasy-league trades couldn’t fix, like…that. OK, plus maybe a complete coaching staff change, almost forgot that. Doesn’t Wren read this forum? Somebody get his email.

I see now that a 4-2 home stand would just be whistling past the graveyard, a mere blip on the trend line to the depths. After all, the Braves lost a game and stunk doing it, and that’s the indicator of all to follow.

So, the tractor pulls start when?

By SNIPER-69

June 21, 2008 7:15 AM | Link to this

haven’t been here for a while and some things have changed for the Mets (For the better, I never was a Randolph fan). As for the braves, I see a little of the rah rah talk has diminished from the blog faithful. If anyone hear’s from LEW give him my regards. Tell him the braves have suffered far more injury issues than the Mets. So don’t offer any more early predictions about baseball for a while. It seems for a 3rd straight year a lot of the bull crap coming from his mouth was just that……bull crap. Meanwhile, the Mets have been playing better baseball as of late. They’re only 4.5 games out and back to .500 which has me still optomistic about the season. I see many brave fans aren’t feeling the same way.

By AJ 25

June 21, 2008 7:22 AM | Link to this

He stinks in the field. He stinks at the plate. Yet The Donkey keeps running The Clown out to right field every night.

By Efrim

June 21, 2008 7:48 AM | Link to this

Anders

I just don’t see the Red Sox interested in Tex. I guess it all depends on David Ortiz. My preference in trading Tex would be to trade him to the Red Sox, their prospects are some of the best in the game.

By Efrim

June 21, 2008 7:52 AM | Link to this

ncscoots

I still think 4-2 is attainable. And that is really all I asked for entering this 6 game homestand. With that said, losing Chipper and Escobar for the series probably makes it a bit more difficult, but maybe this team will suprise some and break off a 5 game win streak? Eh? Okay, maybe not. But you never know.

By Efrim

June 21, 2008 7:53 AM | Link to this

ncscoots

I still think 4-2 is attainable. And that is really all I asked for entering this 6 game homestand. With that said, losing Chipper and Escobar for the series probably makes it a bit more difficult, but maybe this team will suprise some and break off a 5 game win streak? Eh? Okay, maybe not. But you never know.

By Boricua

June 21, 2008 8:04 AM | Link to this

Dear Mr.Wren Give up the Season and bring up the Kid from the minor. Shaffer,Heyward,lilli,Anderson. Your Major team are Palying with none proof outfielder,the Left field is an infilder,the Center field is a rookie that he can’t hit lefty and your right fielder is an major slump. Please play Anderson in left,Shaffer in center and trade Tex for a truck of Good lumber and bring up the Cuban wonder to play first and also bring up Thorman.Norton also can go. Ahh…please don’t do any stupid trade to save this season.Final note, let BC take a few week off let TP to take care his future team.

By Bill

June 21, 2008 8:11 AM | Link to this

What else are there to talk about? How good they are playing??? I wish they were playing good, so we could talk about the good things. It’s not going to happen this year. To many injuries.

By Efrim

June 21, 2008 8:12 AM | Link to this

And if the Braves are going to actually trade Tex, here is my preference(options):

to the Red Sox for Lars Anderson and Michael Bowden

to the Angels for Casey Kotchman, Nick Adenhart and Jordan Walden

to the Dodgers for James Loney and James McDonald

to the Yankees for Austin Jackson, Alan Horne and Jesus Montero

That is the best case scenario in terms of trades for the Bravos.

Is it going to happen?

Hopefully not because that means we are way out of it. I’d rather go for at least the Wild Card and take the draft picks when he leaves and signs with the Bombers.

By ncscoots

June 21, 2008 8:18 AM | Link to this

But you never know.

Just it, exactly. While I’d agree with that as a rational human who has been around baseball for more than six minutes, the blog disagrees. They DO know, and do not weary of displaying that knowledge; thankfully, for those of us not so endowed.

So, I submit to the superior intellects, and you should, too, Efrim. No more of this waiting for the season to play out, my friend. Give up now, and be done with it. The blog has spoken.

By southbeachdietfreak

June 21, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this

After reading these posts I usually come down off my soapbox and tell people just to chill out. However, I can see the writing on the wall, that this will be yet again a season of underachievement. With all the talent on this team we should be in first place. It’s not that these guys don’t have the ability to get things done, they just aren’t doing it. I love BC, but I think the game HAS passed him by. He has to have the courage to act when his players aren’t producing… send them down, extra BP, something… I would say, however, that trading Franceour at this point would be a mistake. I think it would be prudent first to send him down to Richmond and see if he can work his kinks out there. A bigger problem is the lackluster play. I’ve seen a lot of really silly mistakes. I think most managers after seeing the way this team has fielded lately would “recalibrate” everyone via a good old-fashioned b—ch out after a game. But I don’t see BC doing that

By NCBravesFan

June 21, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this

Efrim My take is that I doubt the Braves will be able to get very much for Tex, unless he is willing to do a sign-and-trade … which seems to be a bit of a stretch to me. Also, from a revenue standpoint, trading Tex will be tatamount to the team publicly giving up on the season, which would mean a steep decline in attendance (revenue) the rest of this year.

Another factor at play is the relative softness of the Braves schedule the rest of this month and into July. Odds are, unless the Phillies get really hot, the Braves will be in playoff contention for a while longer.

So I doubt he’ll be moved, unless they plummet in the standings and they get an offer that’s clearly worth more to them than the two draft picks they’ll get after the season anyway.

By Don

June 21, 2008 8:47 AM | Link to this

Francouer from the AJC:

“For some reason I just can’t hit with bases loaded right now,” said Francoeur, hitless in his past 15 at-bats with bases loaded and 2-for-19 for the season — more than twice as many opportunities as any other Braves player.

Note to Francouer, you can’t very well without the bases loaded either.

By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)

June 21, 2008 9:06 AM | Link to this

You know what the good part of all of this is??

The reason why there is such disappointment with Bobby and the Bravos is b/c they have set the bar so high with their success over the last 2 decades.

Often the hardest thing to live up to is ones self or ones own previous accomplishments.

I for one know that while some here spout off b/c of their own personal agenda’s, others have legitimate points of concern. In the end I will take my chances with Bobby over anybody else and enjoy the season wherever it takes us.

GO BRAVOS!!!!!

By doug

June 21, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this

Two comments this morning. I am usually upbeat and will still pull for whoever is out there for the Braves, but here are two things to consider. I haven’t figured out how you can call the season over in June like some have.

1. Andruw had such a bad year last year that we didn’t even get the two draft picks for loosing him in free agency. He wasn’t a class A free agent so we didn’t even get the picks, then we lose the pick for signing Glavine. I hope Tex doesn’t suck the rest of the year and cost us those picks, then we might be smart to trade him. Although it does look like his numbers will be better than Druws.

2. Frenchy needs rest, or a game or two off. He’s not going to get it now that Escobar is hurt and Chipper is hurt. Gotta have his potential in the lineup. So he is going to have to figure it out on his own. Maybe he can go to McCann ‘s house for breakfast and some advice from his old man.

Just a couple of thoughts this morning, hope the Braves win both this weekend and start a little momentum. I wonder if anyone is coming up from Richmond (or Miss)?

By j-school dropout

June 21, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this

As someone who has had shoulder surgery, I really feel for Smoltzie. You can’t sleep because you have to be in a sling, and if you just twitch the wrong way, you get a lightning bolt of pain. You spend all day at home the first few weeks in a special rig that uses ice-cooled water to prevent swelling and in another special machine that moves your arm slowly through a series of passive motions. My second day, I had to get in that machine, and no one had shown me how to take off the sling. I made the mistake of pulling out of it backwards, the pain was unlike anything I had felt before or have felt after. One of my happiest days last year, was the day I could put on a polo shirt. If you’re going to have shoulder surgery, try to have it in the summer because it’s really hard to dress yourself for a couple of months. I wore nothing but Hawaiian shirts and elastic band shorts for at least a month. And rehab is just unbelievable. It’s astonishing how tired and sore you get from minor movements and lifting one- and two-pound dumbbells. Take care, John. Godspeed your recovery. But Braves fans don’t expect him back too soon. My surgery was last July, and my arm is just now starting to feel strong and flexible. My physical therapist told me that shoulder surgery on your dominant arm is one of the toughest rehabs of any orthopedic operation. I’ve never had any other surgery, so I can’t compare, but a rotator cuff and bicep tendon repair is no picnic. And, man, I can’t imagine how hard it is to recover after losing your dominant arm in an accident or in combat. That’s got to be one of the most difficult injuries that anyone can suffer.

By FloridaBrave

June 21, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this

Efrim,

I agree. I don’t see the Braves’ management and I hate that. I hate reading articles how the Braves aren’t even listening to offers on Tex and that stubborn pride could cost us. I’m not saying shop him off right now but if we play sub .500 ball over the next three weeks, why wouldn’t we listen to offers? The organization has too much pride- they’re still looking at those 14 straight division titles and not the recent 2+ years of mediocrity.

We could really get some impressive packages offered up from a variety of teams. The Angels and Dodgers can center packages around their young 1B Kotchman and Loney. The Red Sox have an abundance of young pitching(Bowden, Masterson) and still have CoCo Crisp as trade bait. The Yankees(Who’d be a team desperate for Will Ohman also) could center a deal around Melky Cabrera and I wouldn’t count the Indians or Orioles out too. Would we really be that much worse if we replaced Tex’s production with Crisp or Cabrera at the top of the lineup or Kotchman or Loney in the middle of the lineup? Why not buy and sell at the same time? Get some top young talent back for Tex but then turn around and spin some average young talent for some short-term veteran production to help fill Tex’s shoes.

Point being that the Braves need to swallow their pride if trading Teixeira is best for the franchise.

By Braves Prayer

June 21, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

**O’ Great and mighty COW who presides over Turner Field!

Wave your mighty Tomahawk Choppin’ hoof over us and bless these Braves. Bless this field on which we play, cause our errors to be few and the runs we score to be many! Bless us with health and cause our injuries to cease! May our pitchers arms be strong, and our bats productive. We will look to you for inspiration as you tower over us and view our games. We lift our eyes to you, who stand so tall over us. In the awesome name of Chik-Fil-A we pray, amen.**

By nolie

June 21, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this

I also DEMAND that Chipper be open and available to all and any young players (which I’m sure he is). It’s part of his JOB to at least lead the young guysN8

I’m sure he is too Nate. Roachie and Frenchy and Heap and others have all said that they have gotten help from Chipper. Of course like in Frenchy’s case, just cause you get help doesn’t mean that you can successfully implement the advice. And I knew guys from that ‘95 and ‘96 clubhouse who said that Chipper was taken to task for being too brash in his statements to the other players, so that might indeed have been a big part of his subsequent reticence.

By doug

June 21, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this

Will the cow chop on Sunday’s?

By KC

June 21, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

I’m finished until something changes.

I was at the game last night, and I’m absolutely disgusted. I am through watching every game and following the team as closely as I do, until something changes.

There should be a personnel move TODAY.

The bullpen simply isn’t getting the job done. And that’s putting it lightly.

I’m not going to crucify Ohman, Bennett, Boyer, and Acosta. I know a lot of this may be due to overuse. But it is what it is.

It feels a lot like 2006 right now in that, when you call on the bullpen, you just know you’re going to lose the game.

The Braves need to make IMMEDIATE moves. Stockman needs to be called up TODAY and must actually be used this time. I’m not saying he’s the savior. I don’t know what he is, but he’s earned a chance as much as anyone ever has, and we’ll never know what he can do until we give him a chance.

Beyond that, we need to make at least one deal for a reliever by the end of next week… and need to make a big bullpen move here in the next few weeks, if we’re to have any chance at all.

I’ll watch the box scores, but I’m finished watch each and every game until they make a move.

By KC

June 21, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this

southbeachdietfreak: “However, I see the writing on the wall, that this will be yet again a season of underachievement.”*

Really?

Underachievement?

Let’s see… you lose your ace (or co-ace), and your best reliever (Moylan)… your closer has been out nearly the entire season to this point, and your 3rd starter is on the DL for the second time, gone until at least the all-star break.

Mark Kotsay has been out for weeks, Chipper has missed a number of games (and is out again), and Matt Diaz is out 6-8 weeks after blowing out a knee.

If you told anyone (who knows anything about baseball) before the season that all of this would happen to this team… I think a few games under .500 at this point would be considered best case scenario.

I’m as disgusted as anyone with the way the season as going, and as I just posted, I don’t intend to watch until they do something to halt the train wreck. But you’re statement is, in my humble opinion, unfair and inaccurate.

Yes, there has been some underachievement (please direct all index fingers at Tex and Frenchy)… but on a whole, considering everything that’s happened, this team is not underachieving.

By N8

June 21, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this

Robert Joseph

“Well argued point but I don’t think think it has to play out that way.”

Thanks, and having slept on it, I don’t think it has to play out that way, either.

“Chipper knows Bobby plans to retire after next season and he’s already stated his desire to play in Atlanta till he retires.”

Again, I don’t see much problem with either of them being around, upon further thought. ESPECIALLY if it’s T.P. that takes over (which I’m sure it will be).

The only way it’s NOT T.P. is if Liberty Media gets tired of the Bobby “style” of managing, and wants no part of his coaches taking over.

I can’t imagine Chipper or Smolts saying to the new manager…..“Bobby would have done it this way….”

Not their style. After all Smoltz “survived” the transfer in power from Leo to Roger just fine.

Who knows, maybe NOT having Bobby around would make Chipper MORE vocal than he is (or is possibly allowed to be).

So to those that thought I was insane (not quite “digging through 3 years of blogs insane), for making that comment, I apologize. It was out of line.

In reality, I want nothing more than for Chipper and Smoltz to finish their careers here.

Having said that, I stand by my thoughts of NOT wanting Bobby back next year, and really don’t want any of his under-studies to take over.

I’m certainly ready for a new regime to take over and see where that takes us. Enough is enough.

By KC

June 21, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

“The newly installed 40-foot Chick-Fil-A cow looming high above left field didn’t get to display its tomahawk-chopping capabilities in a game that came unraveled soon after Braves starter Jorge Campillo left in the seventh inning.”

DOB: I was at the game last night, and the cow actually DID do the chop.

By JEB

June 21, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this

Capt. Caveman

Your 9:06 post is RIGHT ON!! You are not the only Braves fan who feels this way! I’m right there with you! Let’s enjoy this sport we call basball!!

By N8

June 21, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

KC

“Yes, there has been some underachievement (please direct all index fingers at Tex and Frenchy)… but on a whole, considering everything that’s happened, this team is not underachieving.”

Good points about all of the issues, and being where we are “record-wise” being not that bad.

But that above comment about says it all. Wren built this team with plenty of “depth” this past winter.

We had young CF prospects that could “fill in” if Kotsay’s back acted up, which it has, and the kids HAVE filled in admirably.

We had young starters waiting in the wings (along with Campillo, who was signed off the scrap heap), in case Glavine lost it, and Smoltz got hurt.

Well, they both have been hurt. NOBODY can argue that the loss of Smoltz isn’t huge. Dude was still one of the Top 5 pitchers in baseball last year. That was a HUGE blow.

But based on what Glavine was giving us when he WAS healthy, I’m not so sure that has been as big of a “hit” as it appears. The only spot that hits us, is in the payroll department. In hindsight, Glavine’s money could have been spent elsewhere.

But I was all for bringing back Glavine, so I’m not gonna second guess that move, though it would be easy to do so, with what we know now.

Moylan? In my opinion, that is the BIGGEST loss of all of the injured players. Bigger than Smoltz, you ask? Yes. In hindsight, knowing all of the 1-run games we’ve lost, one has to think that a healthy Moylan, makes a difference in MANY of those games (or at least extends those games to extra innings, giving our offense another shot at coming through).

But Diaz getting hurt is about the equivalent of Glavine getting hurt. He wasn’t doing anything when he was healthy, so what’s the difference.

But with Tex and 6-4-3, you are dead on. IMO, if those two guys were doing what was remotely expected of them, we easily would be doing better than we are, EVEN WITH the loss of Smoltz and Moylan.

In general, this team is under-achieving. There is so much raw talent on this team, yet they have no compass to get on the right track.

Sloppy, lackadaisical defense, POOR base-running, poor bunting, poor fundamentals (until the past 3 or 4 games of the last road-trip), when it comes to hitting cut-off men, moving runners with ground balls to the right side, and doing WHATEVER it takes to get a runner in from 3rd with less than 2 outs.

Even with the current 25 man roster, they’re playing below what they are capable of doing.

Just my opinion.

By prattvillenolzfan

June 21, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this

After seeing this team muddle through this season, I’m convinced that it is definately time for a change in the dugout…

Let’s examine what’s going on with the Braves right now….

First Injuries have decimated this team this year, NOT AN EXCUSE, BUT A FACT

Second Franceour’s play has been horrible. IN A WAY, IT’S JEFF’S FAULT…

BUT A STRONG MANAGER WOULD BENCH HIM FOR A FEW GAMES TO CLEAR HIS HEAD

Third Reliever’s are not that good.
YES THEY ARE THE ONES MAKING BAD PITCHES…

HOWEVER A QUALIFIED MANAGER WOULD HAVE THEM IN THE PROPER SITUATIONS.

Bennett doesn’t know what his role is…One day he starts, next middle relief, next he closes…..

Fourth

He seems like he doesn’t have the zest/passion this year like he has in the past…

HOW MANY TIMES HAS HE GONE “APESHIP” THIS YEAR…..DO SOMETHING..SHOW US YOU CARE…..GET THE TEAM FIRED UP…STOP GOING THROUGH THE MOTIONS

Yes Franceour is killing us, but COX is the one putting continually setting him up to fail.

Yes our bullpen is inconsistant, but COX is the one continually setting them up to fail….

Anyone see the picture here……

By N8

June 21, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Caveman

I too agree with your 9:06.

As much as I like to complain about the RESULTS of the games, they are, for the most part, very enjoyable to watch. They’re close games with the outcome usually in doubt (unless 6-4-3 comes up with the sacks full - THAT outcome is NEVER in doubt. LOL!).

But your point about the bar being raised so high, is PRECISELY my point I made, (or was trying to make), when I was rambling late last night.

I think the pressure of what past Braves teams have done, is weighing on these guys.

You might be right. Maybe after Bobby is gone, I’ll have a greater appreciation for what he brings. Maybe not. But he (as the leader), hasn’t gotten it done with this core of players for 2+ years.

Many state that he is THE REASON these teams are able to play .500 ball with all the “issues” this roster has had since 2006. But there seems to be a growing number of people that think he is the reason that this core of players has ONLY been able to tread around .500 ball.

Both sides can’t be right. Both sides can’t be wrong. We won’t know until he’s gone, so we’ll have to continue to speculate/debate until then, huh? LOL!

I’m just ready for new leadership. Nothing personal with Bobby and his worshipers. EVERYBODY is entitled to their opinion, whether it’s right or wrong…..right?

By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)

June 21, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

I have to wonder if at this point would it really be worse to call up Schaefer and have him play CF. Put B. Jones in right and leave Blanco in CF. Then send Frenchy down to Richmond for a couple of weeks and see if he can get it together. Honestly, would Schaefer do any worse than Francoeur is right now? I don’t think so.

By N8

June 21, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

I was just trolling through the latest issue of SI (I don’t actually pay for it - 3 months free with MLBradio subscription), and there is a pretty good story about Jay Bruce and his relationship with Griffey Jr. (his idol AND mentor).

But the funniest thing in the whole story was a mention of the practical joke that Adam Dunn played on him in spring training, when he told him that A-Rod and Jeter wanted autographed baseballs from him.

So he signed them and Dunn sent them over to the Yankees clubhouse. Only problem is they didn’t ask for them.

Now, THAT is funny. Seems like a good natured kid that has his head on straight.

By Get A Life

June 21, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

It’s unbelievable to me how many people posting on this blog think they actually know something of relevance. Get a clue. For those of you offering your in depth thoughts on the state of the Braves, nobody cares and you need to get a life. Yeah, look in the mirror. YOU need to get a life. Just because you manage a fantasy league team or because you read a cybermetrics book doesn’t mean you know squat about MLB. If you think Bobby Cox is the problem, you’re an idiot. If it wasn’t for DOB’s blog, who would listen to your tripe? The answer is, nobody, and nobody’s listening here, either. Try it out on your little leaguer first. They may not realize how irrelevant you are for a few more years. At least that way you’ll feel somewhat validated.

By David O'Brien

June 21, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this

KC, I know it did the chop, they had a demonstration type, unveiling thing. But other than that, what opportunities did the big beast have to chop? I should’ve said “many” chances to chop I guess, to be clear.

By the way, I had a pretty good line that got taken out by a copy editor. I wrote that if the cow had tear ducts, it would have cried in the last few innings.

By THB

June 21, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

Efrim-I agree on all of your trades for Tex. Lars Anderson and Bowden would be an awesome return, don’t see them giving up the farm though. They’d probably want to offer up Crisp and someone else first though.

But I do see the Angels offering Kotchman and Adenhart, the other guy would be nice too. I remember before the season I posted something about what we could get for Tex then. I figured we could snag Kotchman, Santana/Saunders, and Willits most likely for sure. How pretty would we be sitting right now? We’d have two guys in the rotation in Saunders (10 wins) or Santana (9 wins? He’s just dirty, though). We’d have Kotchman hitting above .300, albeit less power, but the potential is there. Then Willits could have been our CF and leadoff man. I bet we’d be sitting pretty.

Our rotation right now would be Hudson, Santana/Saunders, Jurrjens, Reyes, Morton. And that’s with losing Smoltz and Glavine! But oh well. Maybe we could still get Kotchman and Adenhart.

FloridaBrave-You’re dead on with the thoughts on Tex and management. The Braves need to realize that trading Tex is what’s right for the franchise. Whether we do well this year or not (leaning towards not), trading Tex would still bring us immediate and long term success. If we got Loney and McDonald, we’d be better off this year and for the future. Same for Kotchman and Adenhart. They need to swallow their pride and put him on the table. He’s losing value every day, and I’d like to see what we could get for him.

By prattvillenolzfan

June 21, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

N8 & Caveman

I also agree with the 9:06 post… I however want to take it a step further. The bar has been raised so high, for so long, that anything less than a World Series appearance is considered a failure….

The question however is this. Would you rather be like the Braves and win 14 straight divisions and only 1 WS.

Or would you rather be like the Marlins who HAVE won 2 WS, but are Constantly rebuilding.

To all of the Bloggers suggesting that we “clean house” right now, Please keep that in perspective. We have a strong nucleus of talent right now, it just hasn’t meshed yet…

Me personally, I will take our last 16 years over the Marlins last 16 years anyday……..

While it’s fun reminiscing over VH1’s 70’s & 80’s pop culture shows, It’s not fun reminiscing over 70’s and 80’s Braves Baseball…………

I do think that management can get complacent at times, and that’s what I think has happened here. For the most part, personnel is here, Management may not be………..

By Shamus Thacker

June 21, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the song Chop Chop, I LOVE it!! lol

By David O'Brien

June 21, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

Doug, very good question about the cow and whether it will chop on Sundays. Hadn’t thought of that (for those unfamiliar Chik-fil-a isn’t open on Sundays).

By KC

June 21, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

N8: There are really two players on this entire team we can point to and say “they’re definitely underachieving”. And we all know who they are.

Boyer, Acosta, Ohman, and Bennett are either being figured out by opposing hitters, or they’re worn out right now (or both). But I’m not sure we can say they’re “underachieving”.

Tex, Frenchy, and who else? Who else is underachieving?

By TBraveFan

June 21, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

Two things on the Cow… 1) they need to put some shades on the poor thing - she looks like she’s scared to death…

2) she needs to speed up the chop to keep time with the rhythm of the chant…

Comment on the game … Embarrassing and frustrating - but I will be back in my seat again tonight just as always!

By David O'Brien

June 21, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

oh by the way the french man is hitting .156 in late close games.

that is according to baseball.com

sorry DOB.uga-brave

Why are you apologizing to me? We (and baseball) use Stats Inc., not baseball.com. And according to Stats Inc., Francoeur is 10-for-45 (.222) in late-and-close situations.

Sorry, uga-brave.

But if you feel more comfortable using the numbers you got of baseball.com, I’m quite sure that Stats Inc. and myself (and MLB) won’t be offended.

By N8

June 21, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

prattvillenolzfan

“The question however is this. Would you rather be like the Braves and win 14 straight divisions and only 1 WS….Or would you rather be like the Marlins who HAVE won 2 WS, but are Constantly rebuilding”

I have repeatedly told my friends that raz me about the Braves only winning one WS, that I would take the 14 year run (with only one title), over the Twins (I live in ND - so I’m in Twins territory - as they like to say around here), winning the WS in 87 and 91 and having many horrible seasons in between and since then.

However, I wouldn’t add the past 2+ years into that mix. We haven’t won anything, or made it to the playoffs.

So they really shouldn’t count, with the 14 year run, should it?

I tell you what though, the Marlins seem to know when to get rid of players and how to MAXIMIZE their return on them.

The only guy we’ve really done that with in the past few years, is Andy Marte.

He was traded for Renteria, which in turn was traded for JJJ. Add to that, that Edgar played pretty damn good ball for us for 2 seasons, and Marte has done little to nothing.

I guess you have to throw in the Hudson trade as well. We gave up literally nothing to get him, and he’s served us well (not as dominating as he was in Oakland - but very good nonetheless).

But the JD Drew trade was a waste.

Many will argue that that move (trading for JD) “saved” the streak.

So what? Ask me, if in hindsight, I would have rather missed the playoffs that year, to keep Wainwright with us, and I’ll say YES 99 times out of 100. Drew didn’t help us win a WS.

Same goes for Tex.

The problem with the streak is two-fold. While enjoyable to watch, it made our GM make moves that he might not have made just to keep the streak alive.

Kind of like Baltimore NOT wanting to sit Ripken down, even though he might not have been their best 3B on the roster. The streak created pressure on everybody to perform and keep it going.

The goal should be to not only try and win a WS each year, but to NOT set your team up with roster issues in the future.

Since 2003, we’ve traded for 3 BIG NAME players that we couldn’t afford to keep (Sheffield, Drew and now Tex).

Add to that, the streak caused us to “hang on” to players too long, that had no intention of signing, that we could have traded for younger players (Andruw, Furcal). But the “backlash” from fans wanting to win in the NOW, would have been ridiculous.

Too many people get attached to the players, (which is fine if you are 12), rather than root for the team to succeed.

Ultimately, this drought of playoff appearances will serve the young players and fans better. When (if) we ever get to the playoffs again, we will all appreciate it more, I believe.

By Adam

June 21, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this

It’s the same BS after every loss. MAKE CHANGES NOW is all anyone here can think of to demand. Yes I think sitting Francoeur for a day or 2 may be a good idea, but the bottom line is we are gonna need him if we have any chance of being in the race. We need Tex to