AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2008 > June > 25 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USEscobar still learning to temper emotions
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Yunel Escobar is benched today, but apparently not for the reason some of us expected he might be.
The fiery shortstop hurt his left shoulder when he dove (or dived, if you prefer) back to first base on the double play that led to his ejection in the fourth inning of Tuesday night’s loss to the Brewers, after he argued with the umpire and threw his batting helmet in disgust.
Escobar took a few swings in batting practice this morning and said “No mas,” or something along those lines. The shoulder was too sore to swing, he said.
So he was scratched from the lineup and Ruben Gotay was inserted in the No. 2 spot. The top of the order not looking too formidable today, with .242-1-13 leadoff man Gregor Blanco and .226-1-4 utility man Gotay.
After that it’s 3. Kelly Johnson (in place of the hurtin’ Hoss; Chipper expected to DH in Toronto series that starts Friday), 4. Mark Teixeira (seeking to continue his day-game success), 5. Brian McCann, 6. Omar Infante, 7. Jeff Francoeur, 8. Brandon Jones, and 9. Jorge Campillo.
Infante is playing shortstop, Gotay’s at third.
Brewers have Jeff Suppan (4-5, 3.92) on the mound. The veteran right-hander is 3-5 with a 4.15 ERA in his past 10 starts, including 1-5 with a 5.96 ERA and .318 opponents’ average in five road starts in that period.
Before throwing eight scoreless innings to beat the Braves on May 28, Suppan had been 0-4 with a 7.78 ERA in four career starts against them.
Of course, most of those starts were against more formidable lineups than the one the Braves are running out there today. So we’ll see.
The Escobar thing: So what are the Braves going to do about Escobar’s temper, which has been on display more in recent weeks, perhaps because of the team’s struggles and/or his own recent difficulties driving in runs or hitting anything other than singles.
The short answer: Nothing. By that I mean, they’re not going to bench him or otherwise punish him. They all really like Escobar, but they’re re-emphasizing to him that he’s got to rein in the temper at least to a degree.
GM Frank Wren said it’s a fine line, that he’s always played with passion and that his fire and desire makes him an exciting player to watch and a sparkplug for the team.
Wren believes the Braves have the leadership — Cox, hitting coach Terry Pendleton, bench coach Chino Cadahia (a fellow Cuban), Eddie Perez, and older teammates — to make Escobar grasp the importance of playing with a little more control, not getting on the bad side of umpires, not getting tossed from games.
He’s gotten a lot better at it since his early minor league career, when some wondered if Escobar’s temper and attitude might hold him back. He’s made big strides, but in recent weeks there have been a few incidents where he’s reacted to close calls in a way you just can’t do.
They’re trying to get him to understand the subtle differences in how he reacts to calls and how certain other players might react, how they might bitch and complain loudly about the umpire, but do it while looking the other way.
Or how some of them might even toss a batting helmet and get away with it, because they do it in such a way that they’re not showing up the umpire to the degree that Escobar did last night, when he slammed his helmet while looking at, and shouting at, the first-base umpire.
Can’t do that. Umps remember that. He’s lost for the game, and in danger of getting the raw end of future close calls by some umps who’ll remember that. You don’t want to develop a reputation among the umping fraternity as a guy who shows them up. Especially if you’re a young, relatively unestablished player.
I talked to Eddie and he brought up a very interesting point that might help explain the difference in culture, in what Escobar came from in Cuba, where he learned to play the game while wearing the junior-national team uniform.
“My first two years here they sent me to extended spring [training] to learn to play the game the right way,” said Perez, who is Venezuelan. “I hated being sent there. But I’m glad they did it, because I learned how to play, so I didn’t look like him [Escobar].
“He’s a great kid. But in Cuba, they teach you how to hate the umpire, hate the other team, hate everybody on the field. When I was playing [in international tournaments] I’d see those guys in the hotel and they’d say, ‘Hey, we see you on TV, nice to meet you’ and all that. Then in the game you’d try to talk to them and the same guys would look at you like, ‘Get out of my face.’
“He’s a great kid. He’s learning and learning. Last night something happened, and he’s going to learn from that.”
Escobar said through a translator this morning: “I’m a very intense player. I’m not trying to be nasty to the umpires. Sometimes it works both ways, there have been encounters [recently between players and umpires]. But I’m not a hot-tempered person, just intense.”
He also said that from this point on, he’s not even going to look at umpires anymore.
We’ll see. That might be a good strategy for him, though.
By the way, Escobar has hit .279 (17-for-61) in his past 16 games, but has only four extra-base hits (all doubles) and as many errors (two) as RBI in that stretch.
Draft-pick signings: The Braves signed 18 of their 51 draft picks, including second-rounder Ezekiel Spruill, a right-handed pitcher from Kell High in Marietta and the team’s third selection.
The Braves haven’t signed top pick Brett DeVall, the 6-foot-4 lefty from Niceville (Fla.) High, but they still have nearly two months to get a deal done.
Blanco’s struggling: After hitting .298 with a .409 on-base percentage I his first 40 games, Blanco has hit just .178 (16-for-90) with a .275 OBP in his past 26 games before today.
He’s on a 2-for-23 skid with seven strikeouts in his past six games.
The Braves hope to have Mark Kotsay back from the DL next week, and it can’t come too soon. His return would presumably allow Blanco to move back into a platoon left-field role and/or backup at all outfield positions.
Kotsay went 0-for-4 in his first rehab game Tuesday at Double-A Mississippi, but had no pain and hit at least one ball hard, according to Wren. He DH’d last night and will probably play center field today, easing back into things.
Blanco has hit .268 with a .371 OBP vs. righties, but just .156 (7-for-45) with a .278 OBP and 18 strikeouts vs. lefties.
When leading off any inning, he’s hit .200 (11-for-55) with 10 strikeouts.
OK, a tune: Just seems appropriate.
”FIVE FEET HIGH AND RISING” by Johnny Cash
How high’s the water, mama?
Two feet high and risin’
How high’s the water, papa?
Two feet high and risin’
We can make it to the road in a homemade boat
That’s the only thing we got left that’ll float
It’s already over all the wheat and the oats,
Two feet high and risin’
How high’s the water, mama?
Three feet high and risin’
How high’s the water, papa?
Three feet high and risin’
Well, the hives are gone,
I’ve lost my bees
The chickens are sleepin’
In the willow trees
Cow’s in water up past her knees,
Three feet high and risin’
How high’s the water, mama?
Four feet high and risin’
How high’s the water, papa?
Four feet high and risin’
Hey, come look through the window pane,
The bus is comin’, gonna take us to the train
Looks like we’ll be blessed with a little more rain,
4 feet high and risin’
How high’s the water, mama?
Five feet high and risin’
How high’s the water, papa?
Five feet high and risin’
Well, the rails are washed out north of town
We gotta head for higher ground
We can’t come back till the water comes down,
Five feet high and risin’
Well, it’s five feet high and risin’
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Comments
By Braveheart
June 25, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this
in Cuba, they teach you how to hate the umpire, hate the other team, hate everybody on the field.
N8 is Cuban?
By Todd
June 25, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
First!?
By J-Dubb
June 25, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this
First??…sorry, had to
By David O'Brien
June 25, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this
Uh-oh.
Infante pulled up on that double, and that’s just how things are going for the Braves, isn’t it? Clearly was a right hamstring.
Another infielder the Braves can’t afford to lose. Might have to push up Prado’s return (he’s supposed to start a rehab assignment at Mississippi in next day or two).
Lillibridge in to run, and I’m sure to play SS, too.
By Todd
June 25, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this
UNbelievable…
By Herschel Talker
June 25, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this
Time to start thinking about 09!
By Chop Chop
June 25, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this
Hey…
Whaddya know? A pulled hamstring for Infante.
I think he looked at the Cow before it went out on him.
Chip with a cute little comment:
“The Braves are really hamstrung…”
By cabravesfan
June 25, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this
what happened to Infante???
By bravos
June 25, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this
Somebody needs to tell Mccann his fat a* needs to run to first.
By Kentavo
June 25, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this
INfante hurt?
By Neal
June 25, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this
great now Infante goes down.
By David O'Brien
June 25, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this
Braveheart, a witty man.
By Lew
June 25, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this
Un f##king believable. This team is definitely snake bit. Time to get a mongoose in the clubhouse-soon. Is that Diory Hernandez we see waiting in the wings?
By Todd
June 25, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this
DOB, how far away is Prado from being able to return?
By Lithoman
June 25, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this
Gee Dave, I gotta go to work. Couldnt watch the game anyway, i cant get peachtree tv in Statesboro. Will miss the dogs game too. Escobar will calm down ,after all hes still a youngster. Go Braves and dogs!!! Dave
By atlbravesfan44
June 25, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this
Got gamecast going here and wondering why Infante had to come out. Can anybody help me out?
By David O'Brien
June 25, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this
Brandon Jones’ second terrible play in as many games in left field. Looked like he feared the freakin’ warning track, the way he held back on that catchable ball.
By Will
June 25, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this
This game is already giving the feel of a sweep. What a bunch of crap!
By kris
June 25, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this
another error leads to a run-this is horrible fielding!
By ncgary
June 25, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this
basketball players rarely get hamdstring pulls, wander if its all that backwards running
By Drew
June 25, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this
Why was Infante taken out? No TV here at work
By Dr. Feelgood
June 25, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this
Good blog. I was just wonderin’ about the cultural differences and his freedom of expression.
Watchin’ Braves, eatin’a Q,and listenin’ to Booker T and the MG’s.
By David O'Brien
June 25, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this
Hey, Herschel Talker: As near as I can tell, your range of comments includes “When does football start?” and “Time to look ahead to ‘09.”
Seriously, dude, new material needed. Even Herschel Walker knew a lot about bobsledding and track & field, in addition to football.
By bravos
June 25, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this
Some of our great defense. Nice throw.
By Scuba-Steve
June 25, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this
Hey Bravos…NOT THEY DON’T, HE IS A CATCHER YOU MORON!
By kris
June 25, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this
Lillibridge-your in the majors now-make a play!
That ball was hit right too him-how do they score that a double?
By David O'Brien
June 25, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this
Infante right hamstring strain, day-to-day. That’s report from the clubhouse.
By ernesto
June 25, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this
Not good - left with only Tex, Mac, and Kelly as the only 3 guys in the lineup who can hit.
Maybe that’s too harsh - Campy can hit a little.
Bad days for the offense. And Campy’s getting lit up early.
Wish I kept a bottle of something in my office desk.
By Steve from OH
June 25, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this
Tex is an outstanding 1st baseman.
By Todd
June 25, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this
For those without peachtree tv, Infante pulled his hamstring just before rounding first base on his double. Was clear that was what happened. He limped into second.
By Alan
June 25, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this
DOB, good stuff about Escobar, whom I like a lot. Funny, here’s an intense, hard-nosed player (the kind that a lot of bloggers claim the Braves need), and he gets vilified when he shows emotion. Come on, folks. You can’t have it both ways. So many people on this blog say the Braves act like they don’t care, and they often cite the younger guys, like Francoeur and Johnson. Bullcrap. Those guys care, and they play hard. They don’t always play well, but you can’t fault their effort. I said it in Carroll’s blog this morning: With this team (any team, really), it’s about execution. You can fault the manager on strategy all you want, but in the end it’s the players who play. The Braves have a terrible record in 1-run games because they’re not delivering in the clutch — hitting and pitching, especially hitting. For all the defensive gaffes last night, the Brewers scored all of 4 runs. The Braves should have been able to score 5, and they didn’t. Yep, let’s blame the manager.
By N8
June 25, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this
Braveheart
“in Cuba, they teach you how to hate the umpire, hate the other team, hate everybody on the field……N8 is Cuban?”
Too funny.
However, I don’t hate the umpires. It’s certainly not THEIR FAULT our team has no concept on how to play.
Don’t hate the other teams either. I envy them.
As for hating everybody on the field? I like Chipper and Smoltz. Ooops. Guess they’re not on the field, are they? OK. I’ll “settle” for liking McCann.
By kris
June 25, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this
Is Brandon Jones replacing Francoer as his new love child? He clearly has no business being out there.
Bobby-are you trying to lose on purpose? At least norton catches them-he may not be pretty-but he catches the ball!
By Kev
June 25, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this
DOB
Its Prado’s Return…not Blanco’s..he’s leading off today…
Woops…a groundball to Lillibridge,off his glove….another Runs scores…This is just comical..a AAA team at its best, is what is on the field today(except for Mac and Tex)…the Braves CANT afford to lose Chipper,look at those plays and AB’s,HORRIBLE…
By Remow
June 25, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this
Please bring back Anderson or someone that isn’t afraid of a fly ball in left field. Heck I am 41 and could have caught that ball.
By ernesto
June 25, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this
nice at bat their from Brandon, way to make up for the error kid.
By TennesseePaul
June 25, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this
All the young guys not making the plays… and I see a lot of complaining on the blogs. Wasn’t this what was wanted? “I’d rather the team fire sale the vets and pull up a young team. It’s more fun to watch them develop.” I guess it’s not quite as fun as previously thought.
By Bryan
June 25, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Has anyone said anything about Anderson? Is there a chance he could be called up to play left/center and leadoff?
By kris
June 25, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
The Braves are giving away so many gifts and it’s not even christmas yet!
By WIN ONE FOR BOBBY
June 25, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this
we need to calm down and stick w/ the plan, tread water for now, we’ll really know where we stand after the philly series coming up, if we’re swept again, it will be time to move tex to the yanks and get some young pitching. Baseball is a fickle game, don’t think too much of the errors, but frustrating to say the least.
By jimmy
June 25, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this
Hey Dave-
Regarding Escobars recent struggles etc,it appears to me that his dip coincided with the release of his “buddy” Brayan Pena, they had been tight for a long time and he now appears somewhat lost in the dugout, just a thought…
By Steeledawg
June 25, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this
I heard Will Ohman on the radio this morning. He is seems like a cool dude, and a big music fan. He mentioned he used to host a show on Sunday mornings back in Chicago. He played some Cash, and Vampire Weekend.
DOB, do you ever get a chance to talk music with players? If so, who has the best taste in music, movies, etc?
By AGTfan
June 25, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this
I know I’m not first and I don’t care. Yunel does need to learn to control his temper, but I can’t blame him. I’d rather have a little fire. I do believe that MLB umpires are the most spoiled, pampered, and arrogant officials in any sport. I also think that by and large they are the most compotent officials in any sport. That’s not to say I really think they’re good, but look at the NBA, NFL, NHL. The officiating in those sports is truly pathetic.
I’m not happy with the way the Braves are playing, but I’m amazed at the DL and other injuries this season. The way things are going I’m afraid that Mike Hampton is going to become the healthiest player the Braves have.
By KASHI
June 25, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this
I DON’T KNOW WHAT TO SAY ANYMORE. I DON’T KNOW WHAT TO SAY ANYMORE. I DON’T KNOW WHAT TO SAY ANYMORE.
THIS IS JUST SO SICK, AFRAID TO CATCH BALLS, CAN’T FIELD ROUTINE GROUND BALLS, CAN’T HIT, CAN’T THROW STRICK IN LATE GAMES. BLAH BLAH BLAH… SHUTTING THE TV AND HEADING TO POOL OR BOOK STORE. HECK WITH THIS PATHETIC PLAYS.
By David O'Brien
June 25, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this
Kris: Agreed. That shoulda been ruled an E6 in my book, the liner that Lil’ Bridge missed. Ends up costing Campillo, like the catchable ball B. Jones missed last night drove in a run on Morton’s ledger.
By kirknga
June 25, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this
Yes bad play by Brandon Jones.
DOB good information about Escobar and the cultural difference in how players are developed.
It sounds as if he is starting to get it and that intensity cannot extend to the umpires.
But I like how they teach them to view the opposition. Seems very old school and I wish we saw some more of that intensity from the Braves.
By DirtyDawg
June 25, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
I don’t know what Brandon Jones’ best position is, but if it’s left field then we may as well stop bothering. He’s timid about everything. I mean is that as hard as he can run or is he just so unsure of himself that he half-heartedly moves to the ball - up or back. If their plan is to showcase him, you might as well send him back to the minors where he can look better for their scouts.
By vic
June 25, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this
DOB Whats wrong with Blanco? You said in 1:37 blog that may need to push up Blanco’s rehab.
By northbeach Scott
June 25, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this
DOB At 1:37, think you meant Prado, not Blanco. Might want to update and delete my post. :-)
By Robin
June 25, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this
Hey, is it just me or is Fielder fat?
I’m tired of fat guys in baseball!!!
By ernesto
June 25, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
Hey Kev, you really GOT DOB there. Well done, sir.
By the way “Its” is possessive, you wanted to say “It’s…”, but it’s a blog so we generally don’t jump on someone when we know what they mean.
Man, losing a lot makes me grumpy.
By stynes
June 25, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this
Go KJ!
By tkg
June 25, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this
I think it’s time to sacrifice a live chicken, Pedro Cerrano style. This is crazy.
By flange1
June 25, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this
Way to go KJ!!
By Hoosier Aaron
June 25, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this
We have a shortstop hitting around .300 and some are listing (in another blog) as “their choice” our best defensive shortstop and our gripe is that he plays with TOO MUCH emotion???
Yuney is a beast!
He speaks NO English…for cripes sakes. We have umpteen coaches - somebody take the kid aside and explain to him exactly how they want him to act. Personally - I like to see SOMEONE on this team play with some emotion.
By hk
June 25, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this
… current ‘MVP’ (Runs + HR’s + RBI’s) …
… projected year-end values …
http://www.mindspring.com/~hk3/mvp08a.htm
… (a changing of the guard :))
By kris
June 25, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
Wren has got to make a move fast. There is no way we can last much longer with this lineup. These rookie are not ready to play.
Bring us an outfielder who can hit and catch the ball (or at least one) lol
By cabravesfan
June 25, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
Is is just me or has Kelly Johnson come up with some really clutch hitting lately?
By ncscoots
June 25, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this
*in Cuba, they teach you how to hate the umpire, hate the other team, hate everybody on the field.
N8 is Cuban?*
Who said you’d never see that brevity is the soul of wit, LOL?
That is TOO good, bra!
By rupert
June 25, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this
kelly is becoming a centerpiece for the future of this team, right behind mac, just needs to sure up his d a little, but the boy can rake
By ernesto
June 25, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this
Did You Know??: Prince Fielder’s glove isn’t made of leather, it’s 100% sustainable, earth-friendly hemp.
By Josh M
June 25, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this
Biggest clue the season isn’t going the way we want: the Braves really need Martin Prado.
By SandyB
June 25, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this
the gametracker is stuck on the top of the 3rd with no score….can someone give an update?
By Scuba-Steve
June 25, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this
Hey Robin, that fat baseball player, Prince Fielder, has hit two in the park home runs in the last two years. Think before you speak.
By Mark
June 25, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this
I’m not too worried about Wren doing something for this season…get ready for 09…
By frenchie
June 25, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this
Francoeur is an automatic out! Seriously, it is not the contact lens… what is wrong with him!!! Get someone who can actually hit the ball up here- Josh Anderson!
By Why?
June 25, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
DOB- Why is Bravesheart a witty man? Is it because Cubans hate? Maybe you believe N8 hates, are because someone don’t share your opinion. Just wonder I’m also Cuban.
By Lorena Bobbitt
June 25, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this
.271 BA (3rd best out of 16 teams)
3.71 ERA (2nd best out of 16 teams)
Bobby Cox
Next to last in NL East (5 teams).
Time to sever ties with Cox!
By ManOfTeal
June 25, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
The Braves…..LOL……Go Marlins!!!!
By TennesseePaul
June 25, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this
Well, he has more pop, but the consistency is lacking… and man those K’s are not enviable…
Unfortunately the replacement for Kotsay can’t handle the top of the order despite the pleadings of the baseball aficionados…
Batting 1st: .115/.233/.154/.503
Batting 8/9: .298/.382/.374/1.053
Of course, that’s pre-skid. Which took about as long for Blanco as it did for Harris.
By adam
June 25, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this
DOB Any decent trade rumors around. I know you guys at the press here a bit more than we do.
Also, have you heard any more reason as to why Anderson is nto back up here?
I have to say that if Brandon Jones is in the showcase, he is the showcase you see on The Price is Right that comes with a grill and a bunch of home recreational supplies that gets passed on every time. That isn’t workin out to well. I think it’s time for a change.
By kris
June 25, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this
wow there’s a virus going around in left field-called “deer in the headlightitis” lol whenever the ball is hit there
By Red Clay Hound
June 25, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this
Campy is our best hitter!
By David O'Brien
June 25, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this
Two knocks for Campillo. Gotta love it. He’s saying, I’ll do it myself, or at least try to.
By Bobby's Cox
June 25, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this
I like the Braves approach with Escobar. Someone on this team needs to play with PASSION, and it’s nice management sees that.
As far as that fine line, I think last night was a learning process for Yunel having to watch Corky bat to end the game. Lesson learned hey kiddo?
By TennesseePaul
June 25, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this
Why?: Why is Bravesheart a witty man?
I’d say the wit mainly comes from having the balls to post under his normal name…
By ncscoots
June 25, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this
All the young guys not making the plays… and I see a lot of complaining on the blogs. Wasn’t this what was wanted? “I’d rather the team fire sale the vets and pull up a young team. It’s more fun to watch them develop.” I guess it’s not quite as fun as previously thought.
Those pesky facts DO get in the way, don’t they? But I’m sure that if the Braves will only purge THIS group of young players for a DIFFERENT group of young players, why, that fun factor would shoot sky-high! Blog-guaranteed!
By David O'Brien
June 25, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this
Why: Either you didn’t read Eddie Perez’s quote, or you’re reaching. Either way, whatever is my reply.
By Big Easy
June 25, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this
more proof that Campillo should have hit last night instead of Corky…Campy is 2 for 2 with a run scored today.
~E~
By H from Marietta
June 25, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this
Looks like we got a new pinch hitter: Jorge!!!
By Lorena Bobbitt
June 25, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this
Sorry, let’s try the math lesson again…
ADD: .271 BA (3rd best out of 16 NL teams)
PLUS: 3.71 ERA (2nd best out of 16 NL teams)
PLUS: Bobby Cox
EQUALS: Next to last in NL East!
Time to sever ties with Cox!
By Darren
June 25, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this
I hate to admit it, but I have no problem with what Escobar did considering the Braves recent struggles. It was a close play and I think he may have made it back. The replay was inclonclusive in my mind despite what Joey Simpson said.
Show some fire Braves, Frenchy, let’s see some of that fire again bro!!!
By Robin
June 25, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this
Scooby Steve: I didn’t say he wasn’t FAST.
He makes Heap look like Twiggy though!
By DirtyDawg
June 25, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this
Is it my service? Is it Comcast? Or is it this Peachtree TV thing, that will have audio (usually) and/or video problems at sometime during every broadcast?
Also, if you (rupert) are serious about KJ becoming the ‘center-piece’ of the team, I hope you’ve figured out where he’s gonna play. Of course he can hit, it’s the glove thing that he has a problem with.
By Todd
June 25, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this
How is Campillo with the glove? If he is respectable, we just found our right handed bat!
By kirknga
June 25, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this
Got to love a clear F-bomb from Bobby!
By ruby
June 25, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this
Gotay sucks! Put the darn ball in play! Even a DP scores a run there!!! Might as well have Chris Woodwad back on the team. No more Mets castoffs! At least Kelly picked him up…
By kris
June 25, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this
Bobby is really p** at the ump for not calling a balk. Peachtree tv may want to get the beeps ready next time they show him. F bombs heard here clearly
By The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy
June 25, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this
The Gametracker on the Braves page is my lifeline. I feel…so…cold. I see a bright light. Are those Angels?
By prattvillenolzfan
June 25, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this
No what kind of way Bobby……
By WIN ONE FOR BOBBY
June 25, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this
easy on frenchy there dude, he’s the franchise, he’s 24 yrs old. I think hoosier aaron is right on the money, these guys lose and fans get upset, at least we can see the fire w/ this kid{yunel}. I would’nt mind seeing bobby rip someone’s tail or throw some stuff when we play like chumps.
By Darren
June 25, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this
Oops. I’m glad I read your blog Dave. I didn’t know the Braves were playing a day game. I missed half the game and I’m off of work today. DOH!!!!!
By Andy
June 25, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this
Hey David,
Any word on when Prado might come back? I haven’t heard or read anything about him in quite some time.
By Chop Chop
June 25, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this
Well, it’s nice to see the Braves playing the obligatory “we’re going to avoid the sweep at home” day game. These games are like those Madden “F YOU” games when the computer just cannot be beaten. You might make a couple of plays in the game, but there’s just no way you can win. It’s like an automatic market correction.
By H from Marietta
June 25, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this
KJ rules!
By Scuba-Steve
June 25, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this
Robin, so you just have a problem with him because he is a big guy, even though it doesn’t affect his performance? So you are just prejudiced against fat people, is that it?
By supa
June 25, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this
We should have used Campillo instead of Miller to pinch hit last night.
By Run Heap Run!
June 25, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this
Geeze did the cow put a hex on the braves infielders?
Any guesses who they’ll call up? Anderson again?
Knockahoma here, Heap.
By N8
June 25, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this
DirtyDawg
“If their plan is to showcase him, you might as well send him back to the minors where he can look better for their scouts.”
How about they send him down so they can actually TEACH HIM to play better, so he can be of use to US at a later date?
That’s the problem. People wanna rag on these kids when they get here, even if they were called up too soon.
The sole purpose of the minor leagues (or so I’ve read), is to prepare guys for life in the big leagues. If said player arrives at the big-leagues and is NOT ready, they get sent back down.
Why shove a square peg through a round hole by trying to force them to be better up here when they are over-matched. If a guy has “options”, send him down and teach him to play better.
If he has “peaked” or appears to no longer be capable of improving his play….cut ties with them.
I wanna know why other organizations don’t have a problem sending guys down that need work, but the Braves don’t wanna “hurt the feelings” of certain guys.
The Royals (the FRICKIN TALENTLESS ROYALS), send down former rookie of the year SS Angel Berroa, because the guy couldn’t play any more.
The Tigers sent Dontrelle Willis to FRICKIN’ “A” ball for crying out loud.
If you wanna stick to the Braves organization, the Braves sent Ron Gant down to AA ball to learn to play the OF, after they realized his bat was crucial to their rebuilding, yet his defense at BOTH 2B and 3B were detrimental to the team.
Kyle Davies, Chuck James and Jo-Jo Reyes were sent back down for more seasoning, after ALL had reasonable success with the “big” club.
Davies was then traded.
Yet it is UNTHINKABLE to send Francoeur down to let him learn how to hit in games that the final outcome of DOESN’T MATTER.
Instead they send him to the eye doctor.
By Efrim
June 25, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this
This team has serious problems going for the kill. Heap and Lillibridge had their chance. They blew it. How about a bases clearing double? Something of that nature.
By TennesseePaul
June 25, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this
Mac’s DGANG is looming large today.
By David O'Brien
June 25, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this
Just got my Brian McCann bobblehead doll. McFann, you’re missing out….
Not doing much at the plate on his bobblehead day.
By Efrim
June 25, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this
Even if the bullpen blows this lead, it is on the offense. You had a chance to put this game out of reach there.
By Run Heap Run!
June 25, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this
LOL at Frenchy being the franchise? Uh no. He’s not. I think he’s a good guy and I do hope to see him turn it around but he is not and never will be the franchise. Are you kiddin me?
By Braveheart
June 25, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this
I didn’t realize Boog had a showdown with Buzz Bissinger on his old talk show
Buzz is one angry old man. It was funny to hear Boog hang up on Buzz.
By cabravesfan
June 25, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this
kris- it’s not just peachtree…can’t count the number of times the mics catch Bobby- and more often Mac when he’s at the plate- drop a very loud f-bomb
By Choppinmama
June 25, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this
Campillo is looking good at the plate. Maybe Bobby can use him to pinch hit when the bench gets down to only Corky! I’ll bet he could catch a few in the outfield.
By Run Heap Run!
June 25, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this
Campillo is a beast today. With the exception of last night the Braves have pitched some gems in the last 2 weeks. If the bats and the D could step it up…
By ManOfTeal
June 25, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this
Stick a fork in the Braves guys….they’re done….Go Marlins!!!!
By Eman
June 25, 2008 2:53 PM | Link to this
ha, ok DOB I was reading your story “Chipper not ready to play” and I found it kinda funny in the section about Kotsay when Diaz was being quoted as saying “When Chipper [Jones] is down, other people have got to step up”
you had to add the “Jones” part like we don’t know who this Chipper guy is
By RC
June 25, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
Got to say I’m impressed by the way Kelly has stepped up in the past few weeks to take on some of the offensive load with Chipper hurting. 3 RBI so far today. As things currently stand, I’d say he’s probably the 4th best hitter on the team (behind Chipper, Tex, and McCann).
By Hank
June 25, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
Forget Escobar and his temper are you telling me that Corky Miller is the best catcher we have in the organization to back up McCann, another example of Cox playng favorites to the detriment of the team1
By Hank
June 25, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this
Forget Escobar and his temper are you telling me that Corky Miller is the best catcher we have in the organization to back up McCann, another example of Cox playng favorites to the detriment of the team1
By kirknga
June 25, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this
Since we pointed out the bad with Brandon Jones, we should be fair and give him some credit for getting that inning started.
Seems that KJ has been forgiven and is no longer a bum for dropping that pop up.
ncscoots I agree 100% with your post about young players. Looks like Josh Anderson has become the latest “we-need-to-call-up” guy.
By Bobby's Cox
June 25, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this
Why isn’t Diory Hernandez on this team instead of Littlebridge?
Minor League Stats:
Littlebridge: BA.202, OBP.272, .546 OPS, Runners on Base: .213, RISP: .190
Diory: BA .291, OBP .329, .740 OPS, Runners on Base: .287, RISP: .273.
I’d like to see Barbaro on this team too if they continue to struggle. He’s top 10 in the IL in BA (.309), top 20 in OBP (.361), SLG (.458), OPS (.819) and TB (120 in 73 games). He’s been a consistant bat the whole season and does well with runners on base (.325) and RISP (.296)
And for fun, I’ll bring up Anderson’s numbers with runners on .322, RISP .345. Impressive.
As this team continues to struggle in the clutch and string together hits once a runner reaches base, just know that we have 3 players in Richmond that are doing fairly well.
When Prado comes back, that’ll eliminate the need for Hernandez, but I’d still like to see Anderson here instead of Blanco. Anderson has more speed, better D, a better bat, a lesser K rate, higher OBP, etc…
Barbaro can potentially be a stop-gap guy for next year’s club. Diory is pretty good trade bait, but should definately be here instead of the littleguy.
By Lorena Bobbitt
June 25, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this
Chop Chop, I call plagiarism! You lifted the Madden “F You” game line straight from the Sports Guy on espn.com. Nice try…
It’s fine to quote, but don’t try to claim that as your own. Otherwise, I’m calling for you to meet the same fate as Cox!
By Run Heap Run!
June 25, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
OH NOZ NOT ACOSTA PLEASE! ANYBODY BUT ACOSTA!
By Lorena Bobbitt
June 25, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this
Run Heap Run, not sure what you have to complain about with the pitching last night. With a rookie making his first home start for the Braves, the Brewers only scored 2 earned runs! What more did you want???
By cabravesfan
June 25, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this
RC gotta agree with you regarding Kelly- what I dont get is why so many people seem to be down on him…His defense has gotten better every season, he has handled hitting in spots he is clearly not comfortable in with class, never complaining, just going out and doing what he can, and he is one of our most consistant hitters…what more do you want from the guy?
By Braveheart
June 25, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this
I wanna know why other organizations don’t have a problem sending guys down that need work, but the Braves don’t wanna “hurt the feelings” of certain guys.
N8, they need to have someone better to replace him. As bad as Francoeur is right now, they don’t have anyone who can be as slightly less than mediocre as Francoeur is. If they did have that player, he would be needed to play left field or possibly even center with Kotsay out.
It’s got nothing to do with being afraid to hurt people’s feelings. If anything, the Braves are pretty darn heartless when they decide to cut ties with people. Justice, Grissom, Klesko, McGriff, Dye, Maddux, Glavine, Edgar, Andruw, Giles, Javy, Millwood, Rocker and on and on and on all eventually got shoved out the door when the Braves thought they could get more value for the money from someone else at that position.
If Heyward, Schafer, Freeman, Johnson and Brandon Jones had all shown themselves to be ready to be as mediocre as Francoeur at the major league level, Francoeur would have been benched or demoted or traded already. It’s not loyalty. It’s just not having anyone else better within the organization ….. or from outside the organization that you can purchase for the right money.
By Jake
June 25, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this
If the Braves have a young franchise player, it’s McCann. I cannot understand why Cox keeps Francoeur in the line up. He did the same thing with Andruw last season and it messed up the whole season.
By David O'Brien
June 25, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this
Great performance by Campillo, who could’ve had seven shutout innings with any defense behind him early.
By Choppinmama
June 25, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this
DOB - McFann is not missing out. She’s there today and probably got McCann Bobblehead #1.
By bgvt
June 25, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this
Down on Kelly? While he has done well today, before today, his batting average in June was .238. (With his 2 for 4 today, it is up to .250.) Sadly, given the current roster, I might agree that he has become the 4th best hitter on the team.
By Bobby's Cox
June 25, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this
Jesus, get a grip people. Just because frenchy was born and raised locally doesn’t mean squat. Since when does a player mean more than the team?
This is getting ridiculous. If the braves want to continue to draft local high school talent, then they shouldn’t let the locality of the player handcuff the team.
If Frenchy were from Texas, he’d be given a helluva lot more days off to figure things out than he’s gotten to this point. Talk about a conflict of interest.
By Efrim
June 25, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this
I am a little suprised that BC took Campillo out with only 88 pitches thrown. Oh well. Hopefully the pen can hold it. This would be a pretty tough loss.
By Run Heap Run!
June 25, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this
My bad, Lorena I lost a day, I mean night before last, when JoJo struggled. Morton was the ONLY bright spot last night.
By Chop Chop
June 25, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this
Lorena Bobbitt,
I don’t mean to cut you off, but let me just say that many of us here read Bill Simmons’ column. Anybody who reads the column on a regular basis knows where that Madden “EFF YOU” thing came from. If you want to cry plagiarism, fine. I’ll plagiarize that guy as much (or as little) as I want.
By tvsportscaster
June 25, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this
Barbaro will never see the light of day in Atlanta because he has an absolute butcher in the field, and thus has very little chance of ever playing for Bobby Cox. Canizares is nothing more than a DH
By Bryan
June 25, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this
braveheart, you are leaving out ANderson - the two times he has been called up (31 major league games) he’s hitting over 330….why not try him?
By John
June 25, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this
I don’t understand why everyone keeps comparing Francoeur to last year’s Andruw. Francoeur is hitting about 30 points higher than Andruw did during his ‘hot streaks’ last year. He’s had a bad 2ish months. Not the same as Andruw’s bad year plus. Also, who do you want Bobby to play instead of Francoeur? Norton? Call up Anderson? Neither of those options sound better than Francoeur.
By kirknga
June 25, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this
Heard the interview with Buzz and I think Boog was just as big an a-hole as Buzz was. If you think a guy is incorrect and want to call him on it, then have some stats or something to back it up.
Boog totally call the guy out for not sourcing his book better, but when Buzz asked Boog if he could back up his position he couldn’t either.
By Bryan
June 25, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this
braveheart, you are leaving out ANderson - the two times he has been called up (31 major league games) he’s hitting over 330….why not try him?
By keylargo
June 25, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
Gonzo?
By northbeach Scott
June 25, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
At least I now believe Chip Carey to only be the second most annoying Braves TV personality. J.J. takes the cake for personality most likely to be reassigned to the Gwinnett Braves.
By ernesto
June 25, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
Okay, now please, please, please…just one inning of Boyer today.
By cabravesfan
June 25, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this
Another well pitched, impressive outing by Campillo…
By bgvt
June 25, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this
Exhale….Boyer got through an important inning without giving up a run. Bring on Gonzo for the 9th and hopefully salvage one game from the series and a 3-3 home stand.
By NO MORE BOBBY
June 25, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this
Right when I think maybe Cox has finally done something right, I find out Escobar is sitting because the little baby is hurt. NOT because I thought Cox didnt like his crybaby act last night.
Get some balls Bobby!! Or find your old ones!!
By Josh M
June 25, 2008 3:19 PM | Link to this
The Madden “Eff You” thing is only something every guy has said at one point over the last 20 years. It is hardly original to Simmons.
In fact, hardly anything is.
By Robin
June 25, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this
I’ve figured it out!!! It’s those danged necklaces! Everybody but Chipper needs to LOSE those sumb*ches. Then see what happens.
No Scuba, I’m not prejudicial on the weight-challenged. Matter of fact, I’m putting on a few lbs. myself lately. I’m just old-skool when it comes to baseball. You NEVER saw a “heavy” guy lumbering around way back when … out of respect for the game my friend.
Respect For The Game
By David O'Brien
June 25, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this
Good to hear, Choppinmama. If McFann can get this message, I’ll give her my McCann bobblehead (I’m on the motorcycle today, not much room in backpack).
By Run Heap Run!
June 25, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this
I’m anxious to see how Gonzo handles the heart of the order.
By ncscoots
June 25, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this
kirk, that was actually TennesseePaul’s post, I was just cribbing it, LOL. But I’ll add that expecting young, inexperienced players to not play like young, inexperienced players is, dare I say it?
…”the definition of insanity…”
By FloridaBrave
June 25, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s Cox,
Agreed but only strictly baseball speaking. I think you’re forgetting this is a business and Francouer has a ton of market value as a “local boy” and does help put fans in the seats. Obviously good players who help wins games do as well so there is a balance…
By northbeach Scott
June 25, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this
tvsportscaster seems like being a butcher in the field is a requisite quality of late for Braves players. Might get him promoted so he can round out an infield of Gotay, Lil’Bridge, & Infante. Ha!
By ernesto
June 25, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this
The Lil’Bridge gets his first big league knock.
Way to go kid!
By Scuba-Steve
June 25, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this
Man! What is with all of McCann’s strikeouts today?
By David O'Brien
June 25, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this
Those who suggest the Braves should bench Francoeur: And play who in right field? Are you even considering other options they have or don’t have, or just blindly saying, “bench him!” Because honestly, who are they going to play in RF while Kotsay and Diaz are still on DL?
Anyway, here’s what FRANK WREN said when I asked him about FRANCOEUR this morning, on whether he’s pressing, etc:
WREN: “Jeff’s going through a time right now where he’s trying to do a lot. He’s trying to do a lot of things. Trying to get on track … He’s just human, and it bothers [anyone in that situation].
“He’s been so successful and so good for so long, and when you go through these times you just have to persevere and fight through it, and I know he’s doing that.
“I talked to him yesterday and just said, ‘Keep playing. Just keep playing hard.’ That’s all you can do at this point. Probably the less you think about it and the less you focus on it, the better.”
By Tony Dobson
June 25, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this
Nice to see Frenchy not swing at any of those pitches on that intentional walk. ;)
FSN Milwaukee guys all over Cox by the way. Lots of questionable decisions according to them.
Maybe not as much as an intentional walk which then brings up Chipper with two men on. Good move there Ned.
By GT
June 25, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this
Why is Escobar’s “temper” so much more a controversy than Francouer’s lack of plate discipline?
Why a whole column discussing the frustration with Escobar after one game, than with other people’s struggles all season (and over multiple seasons)? Are we really to be more upset with Yunel (who bats #1 or #2 in the lineup) only hitting singles, when Francouer (who usually bats #5 in the lineup) hits nothing at all?
Sorry, but I’ll take Escobar’s “tantrums” any day over the poor approach that others in this lineup seem to find all too much support for. Not to mention Cox’s efforts to fumble from one mismanaged situation to another.
By Cody
June 25, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this
I would be upset if the Braves didn’t win two of three from the Blue Jays this weekend. Although its on the road were we have played ok during interleague. Top of the rotation is coming up and a series win could allow us to come home within at least three of the Phillies. Imagine getting Chipper and Kotsay back for the three-game series at home with the Phillies. A sweep could put us in postition to be close, tied or in first. That would really change the season around. lets hope we hold on here and hope the Phillies lose again tonight in Oakland. Tat would put us three and a half out. yeah the season is over. Please get us a big bopper for LF and this offense will get a boost. Pitching is great just the offense sputtering.
By David O'Brien
June 25, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this
Big ovation as Hoss strides to the plate. Pagan Bovine is chopping….
By BBFCFM
June 25, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this
Now see, this is a good substitution of Chipper I believe. better than last nights at least.
By Josh M
June 25, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this
A strike out?
Chipper sucks. Cut him.
By BBFCFM
June 25, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this
nevermind
By Darren
June 25, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
That last call was b.s.
That was a ball on Hoss.
By Choppinmama
June 25, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this
I swear Mike Maddux looks exactly like Father Guido Sarducci on SNL. Especially with the shades.
I see no family resemblence between Mike and Greg.
By Tony Dobson
June 25, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this
Think the home plate umpire is worried about missing his flight. I think the last two called strikes on McCann and Chipper were somewhat dubious.
Not a good start to the 9th. Lead-off hitter on.
By Run Heap Run!
June 25, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this
I’m listening from work, not watching…is he swaying? lol
By 22oz
June 25, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this
I would say Mac K’s have something to do with him catching 2 day games after night games in 4 days.
By Josh M
June 25, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this
“You NEVER saw a ‘heavy’ guy lumbering around way back when … out of respect for the game my friend.”
Yep. Babe Ruth and Pete Rose were the very definition of “svelte.”
By Lorena Bobbitt
June 25, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this
Okay, Chop Chop, as long as the Blog realizes your opinions are not your own. Even though you present them that way. Sure, carry on…
By the way, no one cuts off Lorena! Not unless Chop Chop wants to lose one of his Chops!
Come to think of it, maybe I should try the espn.com plagiarism thing…”I think” there’s summer theatre going on right now with college football!
By Braveheart
June 25, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this
braveheart, you are leaving out ANderson - the two times he has been called up (31 major league games) he’s hitting over 330….why not try him?
Because Anderson is nothing but fourth, fifth outfielder filler. Anderson is not a prospect. Or have you not read Anderson’s minor league stats? Or not realized that Houston, wanting a speedy guy so bad that they traded Lidge for Bourn, traded Anderson for the immortal Oscar Villareal? Legit prospects who will become quality major league regulars don’t get traded away by teams looking for a speedy leadoff hitter for Oscar Villareal.
By Run Heap Run!
June 25, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this
Since Hoss is a little long in the tooth for a 19 year old I may try and talk my daughter into marrying Gonzo. ;)
By Blue Magic
June 25, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this
Is Gonzo swaying?
By northbeach Scott
June 25, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this
Robin Have you forgotten the likes of ‘Fat Tub of Goo’ Terry Forster? Round boys have always been a part of the game. Players today are, overall, in the best shape of any generation, I dare say.
Way to nail it down Gonzo!
By Choppinmama
June 25, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this
DOB - ………or, since she already has one, you could save it for me when I use my on-field pass later on in the year. You know, when we’ll be rubbing elbows behind the batting cage!
By Cody
June 25, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this
At least we are not gonna go 6-21 in June this year. hey a sweep of the Blue Jays will make it a .500 month. the Braves always play better in July and August so this might be a good sign of things to come. Plus we will be close to full strength by middle of July. With the exception of Glav and Smoltz. And maybe Soriano oh well. GO BRAVES
By ernesto
June 25, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
BOMB SQUAD!
Any W with that line up is a moral victory too.
Another nice outing by Campy.
By Bryan
June 25, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this
but if every time hes been used in the majors he’s batted over 300 who cares if the lastros don’t think he was very good? isnt he worth a shot? i guess you would rather trot norton/francoeur/bjones out instead?
By flange1
June 25, 2008 3:47 PM | Link to this
Well it is good to have a good closer back!
By wde
June 25, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
Go Braves!
By Fi
June 25, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this
I’m sooooo glad I DVR’d the game. I can’t wait to go home and watch it. Woo hoo for a Braves W!! Way to go Campillo & Gonzy.
By Chop Chop
June 25, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this
Lorena Bobbitt,
My opinions have never been my own, but if my opinions ever do start to enter my posts, I’ll make sure that I provide a source page. I wouldn’t want to plagiarize myself. That just wouldn’t do.
By Braveheart
June 25, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
How come no one on Cheers had a Boston accent?
By kirknga
June 25, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this
Good to get a win and not get swept again at home.
Good to see another good outing for Boyer. That’s back to back good outings for both him and Acosta. Maybe people will start to cut them some slack.
Thanks ncscoots, then I agree with TennesseePaul too.
Don’t let Time Warner off the hook though. Their $20 million slah of payroll is why we have to rely on so many young players.
The primary reason why players like Furcal, Andrew, Glavine, Javy left was because the Braves were under ownership that saw the team as a “noncore asset”. With Ted that was not the case and you can bet that we would not have lost all of them. Millwood was practically given away because of the budget.
So it’s not the youngsters fault really. The budget and injuries have forced the Braves hand.
By Bryan
June 25, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
forgot to mention blanco braveheart - he’s playing real well probably way better than anderson could ever hope to play
By Jerry
June 25, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this
Why is Corky Miller still in the majors. His defense is not worth the bat problems.
By Jerry
June 25, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this
Why is Corky Miller still in the majors. His defense is not worth the bat problems.
By ncscoots
June 25, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this
Pagan Bovine
Not quite as nifty as the coinage of “Notorious DOB”, but still mucho good.
I like it, I’m using it.
By AGTfan
June 25, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this
Those who suggest the Braves should bench Francoeur: And play who in right field? DOB
The true Frenchy haters would like to just leave right field empty and have an 8 man batting order. :-)
By AGTfan
June 25, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this
Way to go Campy. Not only did he pitch well, he was just about our most productive offensive weapon.
By Josh M
June 25, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this
“How come no one on Cheers had a Boston accent?”
Because the producers didn’t want their characters to sound like g.d. retards.
By Wayne in Utah
June 25, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this
Nice win to finish off the homestand. Good to see Gonzo come through, although I still think we should be very cautiously optimistic on him.
Also, good to see Lillibridge get a hit today. I would love to see him get a few more swings in on the road at Toronto. Maybe a start or two? Let’s see what the kid can do. Heck, Gotay has shown me nothing so far. I never dreamed I would be wishing for the return of Marteeen.
By The Mysterious Rhinestone Cowboy
June 25, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
Braveheart,
Good Question. Also wonder why Costner didn’t have a British Accent in Robin Hood. Good movie…bad omission.
By Braveheart
June 25, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
but if every time hes been used in the majors he’s batted over 300 who cares if the lastros don’t think he was very good? isnt he worth a shot? i guess you would rather trot norton/francoeur/bjones out instead? forgot to mention blanco braveheart - he’s playing real well probably way better than anderson could ever hope to play
Didn’t forget Blanco or Anderson at all. Have not been impressed with Blanco. Francoeur’s OBP is almost as high as Blanco’s SLG.
Anderson has 99 plate appearances in the majors. Know what Blanco’s average was after 99 plate appearances in the majors? It was .300. Know what is has been in the 131 plate appearances since? .202. Know what Willie Harris’s Avg was after 99 plate appearances last year? .375. Know what Willie Harris’s Avg was in his last 292 plate appearances last year? .234
By ncscoots
June 25, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this
who cares if the lastros don’t think he was very good? isnt he worth a shot? i guess you would rather trot norton/francoeur/bjones out instead?
1) Smart guys such as Braveheart.
2) No.
3) Yes.
By Paul from Milton
June 25, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this
Wait a minute…people still read Bill Simmons’ column? Don’t you get enough Boston sports and NBA shoved down your throat as it is?
By Salty
June 25, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this
I see no family resemblence between Mike and Greg.
Mailman! LOL!
By Lew
June 25, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this
Choppinmama-Email me please-I lost your email. I’ve got a piece of memorabilia you might like to have.
By Deep Throat
June 25, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this
Thoughts: it’s sad it took an Infante injury to get a real defensive player at short. Corky Miller needs to go, this team has three pitchers I’d rather see hit then him. Free Clint Sammons, to heck with “veteran backup”. Mike Gonzalez looks like the Braves 2009 closer.
By Salty
June 25, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this
Hey, Wayne…Gotay did get Saturday’s rally started with the jack to RF.
By Kathy
June 25, 2008 4:14 PM | Link to this
I’m glad that Yunel’s attitude is being addressed. He was starting to remind me of cocky Jose Reyes. Someone needs to work on baserunning with him. The first thing you learn in little league is “let the liners go through”!
By Bobby's Cox
June 25, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this
Braveheart
Very bad reasoning regarding Anderson. Houston already had Hunter Pence, a speedy outfielder they desperately needed, last year. Pence had a killer year, so that made Anderson expendable. Houston needed reliable relief pitching, not another speedy outfielder. Lidge was anything but reliable last seaon. It was a fair trade, and Houston trading Lidge for Bourn was nothing against Anderson. Houston wanted Lidge to take his troubles elsewhere, and fortunately for Houston, closers are a hot commodity in baseball, and they were able to get a stud in Bourn.
By Kathy
June 25, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this
I’m glad that Yunel’s attitude is being addressed. He was starting to remind me of cocky Jose Reyes. Someone needs to work on baserunning with him. The first thing you learn in little league is “let the liners go through”!
By Ace
June 25, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this
Skimming through the comments, and this one made me chucke:
“By Chop Chop
Lorena Bobbitt,
I don’t mean to cut you off…”
By MBPELICAN
June 25, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this
went to the carolina/california league all star game last night in Myrtle Beach. Mejia won the HR Derby beating the likes of Matt Wieters from the Baltimore Organization. The Carolina League won 3-1, Mejia DHed the entire game, and Reynoso gave up California’s only run.
By A-ville Rangers
June 25, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this
It’s obvious when a guy has ”it”, those intangibles needed to close baseball games.Smoltz has the makeup for sure,Gonzo has the stuff too,though it is in a very different personality package.You’d think at this level most pitchers would have the moxie to face hitters with the game on the line.We all know that couldn’t be further from the truth though.
By TennesseePaul
June 25, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
Also wonder why Costner didn’t have a British Accent in Robin Hood.
He and Christian Slater both sported accents briefly in that movie. Costner in the cells in Israel and Slater when, after a long conversation and explanation of his history and being, suddenly in an accent stated “Are you going to finish what you stahted?”
By TURTSNAP
June 25, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this
Glad to hear the Braves pulled one out today. I ended up not going to the game. I asked my son if he would rather go to the game or go play putt-putt. He chose putting. I guess he too, is aware of the Braves struggles.
Good report on Escobar DOB. Coming into this season, I had stated that Escobar was fast becoming my favorite player. I had begun to grow tired of his temper, but I guess we all need to understand the culture difference that he is having to take on. Hopefully the Braves will do to him, what they did to Eddie Perez. In the long run, it could definitely help him.
By Mike
June 25, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
On a similar note to your “dove/dived” reference: why is it that “the bird flew away” but “the batter flied out to the left fielder”?
By Lorena Bobbitt
June 25, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
By all means, Chop Chop, please credit yourself if you ever think of something original to say.
Otherwise, I’ll assume your comments were lifted from espn.com, and will seek out the original source if I want to respond.
I gotta admit, I do like your screen name though. Even if you did steal it from me…
By ernesto
June 25, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this
Cliff Clavin and his mother both had pretty wicked good accents.
By Section 412
June 25, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this
Back from the Ted. A little warm today, but worth it. Only 4 back now with 48 hours before the next game starts (unlike last week, when we started 3 games in a 48 hour span). Phils have 2 games before we play again - could be 3 back by Friday.
2 days off in the next 5. With the Phils playing on the road (coming here next week will be their 9th, 10th, and 11th straight days on the road), we are in a great position to make a real move before the break.
Let’s make it happen!
By Braveheart
June 25, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this
Very bad reasoning regarding Anderson. Houston already had Hunter Pence, a speedy outfielder they desperately needed, last year. Pence had a killer year, so that made Anderson expendable.
So expendable that they traded Lidge for another speedy outfielder.
Houston needed reliable relief pitching, not another speedy outfielder.
So they traded Anderson for the completely unreliable Villareal?
Didn’t need another speedy outfielder so they traded Lidge for a speedy outfielder?
And I’m the one with bad logic?
Get over it, Bobby’s Cox. Anderson is a fifth outfielder playing a sport that employs a 12th pitcher instead of a fifth outfielder these days.
By kirknga
June 25, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this
I can tell you in Houston, the Michael Bourn trade is being questioned daily, especially on the radio.
It is true that they felt Lidge needed a change of scenery. But it is also true that they did not see Anderson as the answer.
They traded away Willy Taveres and did not see Anderson as the guy to replace him. Unfortunately for the Astros, Bourn has been a bust .230/ .284/ .303.
By Braveheart
June 25, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
Nothing funnier than Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman’s bad Irish accents in Far and Away.
By Wayne in Utah
June 25, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
Mike Why do we drive on the parkway, and park in the driveway?
And what constitutes a “jumbo shrimp”?
Lastly, can someone explain “military intelligence?” (you may only rag on the military, if you have personally served)
By Chop Chop
June 25, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this
Glad to hear it, Lorena Bobbitt.
Now get on over to espn.com and tell me where I lifted this comment from.
By David O'Brien
June 25, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this
Hampton went 2-2/3 inn. in start for Gulf Coast league team, allowed 2 hits and had 2 strikeouts. Threw 45 pitches and felt fine, Braves said.
Left in the third inning when the last batter fouled off a lot of pitches and Hampton reached his pitch limit (45).
Wren said he’s got three more scheduled starts, one at Rome, one at Myrtle, and one for Mississippi on July 10. Those teams are all home for those games.
After that, they’ll decide if he’s ready.
By kirknga
June 25, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
I’m betting that Hampton comes back and does really well. We need him to be the pitcher he was before the injury bug bit him.
He pitched well enough in ST to assure people his arm and leg injuries had healed.
My guess is that he comes back and wins 10 games.
Just enough to make it an open question about resigning him.
That will be fun, if he wins 10 how many will be willing to say give him another contract?
By David O'Brien
June 25, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this
Braves think Infante can avoid DL, not as bad as it looked. Unless it “bleeds out” in next day or two.
By flange1
June 25, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Question for you!
IF (remember I said IF) Hampton does come back, which starter do you think the Braves will be replace assuming everyone is pitching like they are now?
By David O'Brien
June 25, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this
On a similar note to your “dove/dived” reference: why is it that “the bird flew away” but “the batter flied out to the left fielder”?Mike
That one’s pretty obvious, isn’t it?
As a grizzled editor once told me when I was as a high school cub reporter who wrote that a hitter flew out to center field, “Son, the hitter did not grow wings and fly to the outfield.”
By Scooter McNutts
June 25, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this
Lorena
Am I the only one finding your comments are really a cut below others here?
BTW, before you come with slicing on your mind, McNutts is a real name, not just a blog alias.
But, with that in mind, & knowing how your devious mind works, I say, don’t even consider it, their off limits to those of your ilk.
By Dawgsfan1990
June 25, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this
I’ve had similar thoughts (delusions?) about Hampton coming back and winning 7-10 games in the 2nd half. Probably just enough for the Yankees to offer him 7-10 mil for next season. Oops he didn’t like NY too well tho did he?
By TennesseePaul
June 25, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this
losers are a hot commodity in baseball, and they were able to get a stud in Bourn.
Stud…. Bourn… Stud… Bourn…. hmmmm. Is this a construction term? Did they use a sonic stud finder or what?
Micheal Bourn 2008: .230/.284/.303/56
That’s AVG/OBP/SLG/OPS+. His OPS is just .587… If that’s a stud, Francoeur is a monster or “super stud”.
By ernesto
June 25, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this
“Houston wanted Lidge to take his troubles elsewhere, and fortunately for Houston, closers are a hot commodity in baseball, and they were able to get a stud in Bourn.” -Bobby’s Unit
Umm, you’re referring to Bourn’s studly .230/.284/.303?
28 steals doesn’t make you a stud when you hit .230, it just makes people wish you’d lean into more pitches.
By TURTSNAP
June 25, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this
I say there is no way, IF Hampton comes back and has a strong 2nd half, that the Braves offer him another contract. Not after all they’ve been through with his injuries. Just can’t afford the risk.
By Anne
June 25, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this
DOB— Do you think Escobar’s temper being “on display more in recent weeks” has anything to do with Bryan Pena’s departure? The time table would be about right.
By ernesto
June 25, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this
Y’know what must be really perplexing for anyone taking up English as a second language…all the words that are the exact same but the meaning changes depending on you pronounce it
“Chipper dove for the ball and made a great catch” or “Looks like Hoss is goin’ dove huntin’”
“It would be great if Frenchie went on a tear” vs. “The way Frenchy’s been hitting brings many a tear to my eye.”
By Steve from OH
June 25, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this
flange:
I’d put Campillo in the ‘pen…he’d give us another righty arm and he was great in the pen earlier in the year. We’ve got enough SP depth to cover for him, and he’d give us a boost in the pen.
By Cecil34
June 25, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this
Just returned from the game - great effort by Campillo. This is the second game I have been to that he started - he is a player - hits too….
So, the next time Cox is down to Cork-wad for pinch-hitting, I want to see Campy in there.
Sure can’t be any worse and quite likely will be much better….
I guess now I can say, “yeah, I was there when Lillibridge got his first hit down the left field line”….
It was a good day today - enjoy them, they are so few and far between…
By kirknga
June 25, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this
I bet if Hampton wins 10 games the chances he’s a Brave next season are about 60-40.
If he holds up the rest of the season and is the Hampton of old, then sign him up, maybe with some type of incentive ladden contract.
Especially if Smoltz is gone, Hudson and a healthy Hampton is a nice 1-2 punch. Sign a top free agent pitcher and along with JJ and Jo Jo we’ve got as good a starting 5 as anyone else.
By Bobby's Cox
June 25, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this
Did you read the rest of my post Braveheart? They wanted Lidge’s throwing problems and mutliple blown saves off the team. Come on, don’t argue like Shaun. Stay classy.
And you’re right, Anderson is the 5th outfielder. With our CF and LF hurt, that makes room for our 5th outfielder, NOT the 6th (B. Jones), and 7th (Norton), who can’t play the position. Infante was picked up to be the 5th outfielder and backup infielder off the bench.
Anderson should’ve been here out of ST to be a late inning baserunner and backup CF with Infante starting the season on the DL. Not Blanco. Anderson’s gotten a raw deal all year. If the roles were reversed, I’d be all over Blanco’s jock, no question about it. I hope you can see that Braveheart.
DOB
You’re right, there’s no other option than Francoeur in RF right now. But when there is, the fact that he is a local boy should not earn him playing time while he continues to look like an A-level ballplayer at the plate and on the field.
Frenchy being 3 for his last 8 with the right eye contact and new positioning of his hands at least ceases talks for the time being. However, if Frenchy continues to slug at a .399 clip, get on base at a .299 clip, then I’d rather have a RF that at least hits higher than .247 and gets on base higher than a .299 clip. A better hitting RF wouldn’t be hard to find, and we wouldn’t have to look far.
By MGL
June 25, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this
Good grief, can’t some of you let this Escobar/Pena supposed love-in go?? Those guys have been through so much, I seriously doubt that Pena moving on is an issue with either one. Besides, I believe that DOB said when he asked Escobar if he had talked to Pena several weeks later, Escobar said no. I would think that if he missed him so much, he could call him on the phone.
By Anders
June 25, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this
Hey O’Brien Have you given any further thought to investigating Soriano signing that suspicous two year deal and then showing up lame? I mean, it’s almost the 4th of July and the guy hasn’t pitched three times in a week yet and I believe he’s back on the DL. Maybe you want to call that grizzled old editor back to see how he would have handled it?
I mean, I thought it was suspicous back in January (You may remember ripping me about it) but by now even the most magnanimous observer would have to have some doubts.
By BravesFanInRockies
June 25, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this
If Hampton comes back and wins 10 games, some team will be foolish enough to offer him a one year deal that’s not filled with incentives. Or a two-year deal that is.
IMO, that team probably won’t be the Braves.
By McFann©
June 25, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this
Well, nice win. But otherwise…
In retrospect, I wish Corky would have started. Three strikeouts? What the heck??
Oh, and traffic to the game? Don’t get me started. Though that wasn’t the whole part…that is to say, well…we were late……And when you’re late, well…you’re not one of the first 15,000 fanns……
:,(
By Biff
June 25, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this
When is Hampton scheduled to pitch at Rome? May go check him out.
By brent a.
June 25, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this
I would enjoy reading a blog focused on Corky Miller’s stellar defense and how it has helped us hover near the .500 mark all season.
Enjoy Toronto (to whomever is making the trip).
By Kentavo
June 25, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this
hampton’s coming to Myrtle Beach!!! If he doesn’t blow his arm out packing his bags.
By Kentavo
June 25, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this
hampton’s coming to Myrtle Beach!!! If he doesn’t blow his arm out packing his bags.
By Chop Chop
June 25, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this
McFann,
DOB can hook you up with a McCann bobblehead. He posted this earlier today:
By David O’Brien
June 25, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this
Good to hear, Choppinmama. If McFann can get this message, I’ll give her my McCann bobblehead (I’m on the motorcycle today, not much room in backpack).
Maybe he can mail it to you or something.
By BigGTMike
June 25, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this
DOB, I’m not sure hearing that we have another IF day to day is good news to be honest. I mean, sure, I’m happy that Infante’s injury is not anything major, but we have him, Chipper, and Escobar day to day…
Corky and Norton will be our only bench players, lol.
By Grizzled Old Editor
June 25, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this
I’d have said “What jag-off thought up that lame conspiracy theory?”
By northbeach Scott
June 25, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this
Campillo continues to pitch solid ball and now has a 2008 WHIP mark of just 1.02 to go along with that fine 2.54 ERA. If Hampton or Glavine returns, it would probably be Charlie Morton to go back to Richmond, rather than Campillo to the ‘pen.
Morton is still very inexperienced and this might be good for his development to take some major league learnings and apply them in the minors until September call-ups. We do not want to rush him when this season is a long shot.
Gotta love Campillo throwing so many first pitch strikes, enabling him to set up the hitter with his variety of pitches. Really a smart guy in addition to being so in command of his stuff.
Chuckie could learn a lot from Campillio’s pitch selection and plan to attach each hitter,even though he seldom hits 88mph on the gun. Course Chuck & duck would actually have to have an idea where he was throwing the ball.
By Bobby's Cox
June 25, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this
Ernesto and Tennesee Paul
Bourn is a rookie, so obviously i’m talking about his minor league stats.
Like Braveheart hinted, he was a basestealing stud and OBP machine in the minors. However, he has failed to live up to expectations thus far.
Edgar Renteria is having an off year, Jurrjens a good one, so we say we got the better end of that trade. Villareal has a 4.73 era and a 1.43 WHIP with Houston, yet we don’t know who got the better end of that trade yet.
Some players like Escobar outperform what they did in the minors. Others don’t live up to expectations. So far in his ML career, Anderson has exceeded them yet he hasn’t been given a chance. I guess that’s baseball eh?
By bravos2249
June 25, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this
Blanco is struggling and such but we all need to remember this guy is suppose to be the 4th outfielder/ platoon player and he’s a rookie…heck he wasn’t even called up last year ok. He shouldn’t really play against lefties but he has to. And whose fault is it really that every CF/LF MLB ready minor leager we have is left handed?
By Marlin Marketing & Promotional Staff
June 25, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this
Oh, and traffic to the game? Don’t get me started. Though that wasn’t the whole part…that is to say, well…we were late……And when you’re late, well…you’re not one of the first 15,000 fanns……
Wait a sec, how did the braves and their sub .500 record manage to get 15,000 fans to the park on a weekday afternoon game?
By AGTfan
June 25, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this
Glad we got a win today with the MASH Unit lineup.
Good Luck to the UGA fans tonight. I watched most of the game last night and I gotta say I was really impressed with some of the Fresno State players. Their 3rd baseman is as smooth a fielder as I’ve seen in a long time and he’s got a nice stroke.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 25, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this
AAHHH the good ‘ole Gulf Coast League.
That brings back memories. I think it is one of the best thrills some of those guys get is to play with Major League guys who come down to get some work in. It’s fun to do and the pro’s get treated like royalty, they also have to answer a million questions about life in “The Show”.
If you really play well for them, sometimes the pros will take the team out for a nice dinner somewhere. Someplace with a buffet more than likely.
By Original Jon
June 25, 2008 6:40 PM | Link to this
Wait a sec, how did the braves and their sub .500 record manage to get 15,000 fans to the park on a weekday afternoon game?
Wait another sec….how do the Marlins and their above .500 record seem to fail to get OVER 15,000 fans at a game, period?
By Section 412
June 25, 2008 6:49 PM | Link to this
McFann - I’m so sorry, but I gave mine to a kid at the game who missed out as well. I would have sent mine to you.
If DOB doesn’t still have his, bloggers unite! Somebody has to have a bobblehead that they can get to McFann. If ANYBODY should have one, she should!
By Chop Chop
June 25, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this
Hunker down, you hairy Diamond Dawgs!
By brent a.
June 25, 2008 6:52 PM | Link to this
btw, I just realized today (from DOB’s post) that McFann is a “her”.
It all makes a lot more sense now.
By bravesfan
June 25, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this
DOB, I just got back from the game. Where were you sitting?
By ncscoots
June 25, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this
If you really play well for them, sometimes the pros will take the team out for a nice dinner somewhere. Someplace with a buffet more than likely.
Buffet or not, that’s one less plate of lasagna at the host family’s house, LOL. That can only be a good thing. :-)
By Cecil34
June 25, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this
I didn’t get no Bobblehead either Mcfann - but if I had, I’d have given it to you…
I guess that serves me right for going to the Varsity to eat beforehand!
By Bobby's Cox
June 25, 2008 6:58 PM | Link to this
Blanco is struggling and such but we all need to remember this guy is suppose to be the 4th outfielder/ platoon player and he’s a rookie…heck he wasn’t even called up last year ok. He shouldn’t really play against lefties but he has to. And whose fault is it really that every CF/LF MLB ready minor leager we have is left handed?
Good points.
Blanco has hit .268 with a .371 OBP vs. righties, but just .156 (7-for-45) with a .278 OBP and 18 strikeouts vs. lefties
Anderson vs. lefties in minors: .343, .366
If Blanco comes off the bench in pinch hit in late innings when everyone is healthy, don’t you think teams will just bring in a lefty to face him?
Better D: Anderson Vs. Blanco. Advantage Anderson.
Who would you rather have as a late inning defenseive replacement?
Who would you rather have pinch running late in games?
heck he wasn’t even called up last year ok
Oh yeah, Anderson was brought up last season, and he did quite well.
His .358 batting average was the fifth-highest after a September debut for an NL player since 1957 (min. 50 plate appearances).
Anderson 2007 with Men on Base: .500 (13-26) With RISP.471 (8-17). Late & Close: .429 (3-7), 2 out RISP: 3 for 6.
Anderson 2008 in minors: Runners On: .326, RISP .345 (20-58)
Blanco: runners on: .256, RISP: .213, 2 out RISP: .167, Late & Close: .176
Seriously people, when Kotsay and Diaz are back, who do you want as a late inning 4th outfielder coming off the bench late in games? It’s not even close.
I hope Bobby Cox and management think long and hard about this and do what’s better for the team strategically. Obviously, the sitaution can change if a trade is made or health calls for something different, but all things being equal, the move should be made.
By Roman Gal
June 25, 2008 6:58 PM | Link to this
That stinks, McFann. We just barely got there in time to get one, and we got there around 12:15. I saw that there were nearly 35,000 people there today…lots of munchkins running around. But at least they won…
By northbeach Scott
June 25, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this
McFann I skipped going to the game today, or I would have been happy to give you mine. Tell your folks they really will want to take MARTA while the downtown connector is under construction.
I imagine that one of the fine denizens will be willing to part with their bobble head of McCann for you. Come on folks, let’s help out our blogging teammate.
By Census Taker
June 25, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this
I have a little insight into why the Marlins can play .500 baseball and not draw 10,000 a game. Try less than 50% of the people that live in the Miami/Dade County area were born in the United States. That’s why when Yunel Escobar goes there he has more family in the stands than I have period.
By Amber
June 25, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
Sorry for dragging this over from three blogs ago, but this place moves too darn fast for me!
**By Adam
June 24, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this
Amber,
Did it ever occur to you that these players hire Boras for a reason?**
Why yes, actually, it did. I do know who Boras is… I also know that both A-Rod and Kenny Rogers did an end run around him after last season ended. So maybe some players hire him and then have a fit of conscience. Who knows?
**By John
June 24, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
… Also, I’d say the Braves did come into this season with a surplus of pitching seeing how I believe they have had to use 9 different starting pitchers and up until a week ago they had gone the whole year with a closer by committee. In spite of all of the injuries and whatnot, they are still near the top of the league in overall era and such. I’d consider that to mean the Braves began this season with a surplus of pitching.**
You would? Because I would consider that to mean that there is no such thing as a surplus of pitching, like I said before. A surplus is something more than you actually need. We ended up needing all of those pitchers. Therefore, we didn’t have a surplus. And that simply illustrates my point. What if Wren had had the bright idea before the season started to trade off some of that so-called surplus? Would we have been fine, or would we have been hurting? We’d have been pretty far in the hole… worse than we are now. We needed every single solitary one of those arms we had.
By Scooter McNutts
June 25, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s Cox 6:58
Good stuff on the Blanco vs Anderson stats.
I agree, but somehow figure it doesn’t matter to BC. It seems that that when he decides to pick a pet, the stats & logic go out the window. I can only guess that for whatver reason, he doesn’t like Anderson, or Stockman either. Only reason possible for not giving either a legitiamte shot during these rough times!
By McFann©
June 25, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this
You guys are great! I’m deeply touched.
:,)
By Are U Crazy?
June 25, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this
*By Run Heap Run!
June 25, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this
Since Hoss is a little long in the tooth for a 19 year old I may try and talk my daughter into marrying Gonzo. ;)*
Chipper? Turn down a 19 year old? LOLZ!
By bravos2249
June 25, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this
BobbyCox
that’s one reason why Blanco should at most be a platoon player untill he gets better. We also have to remeber Anderson was called up for the Astros who were out of playoff contention and were probably playing teams that weren’t in contention as well….they did play 19 games since his call up against the mets, Cards, Cubs and Brewers but only the Mets could really gain anything since the other 3 were in their divison….not saying he isn’t good but…B Jones was called up last year and only hit .158 so you never know….he should get a chance but there aren’t enough spots.
By KC
June 25, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s Cox: I think you’re absolutely right about Blanco VS. Anderson.
One thin you didn’t bring up was stolen bases. Anderson is much more accomplished in that dept.
By KC
June 25, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this
DOB: Is Stockman hurt? Just noticed that he still hasn’t pitched since being sent down.
By bf54
June 25, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this
Todd! - you were “first?”? Man, my friggin’ heart goes out to you. You must be such a loser (along with others) with that “first? shid.
By Mike in LA
June 25, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this
I think Anderson will get another shot. The spring training decision to keep Blanco and Anderson was the toughest one for Bobby but I do remember him saying that there was not a big difference in what they could bring to the table and that he might flop them at some point if one of them was doing much better than the other
By KC
June 25, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this
OK, be honest. If the Braves announced tomorrow that they’d signed Barry Bonds, would any part of you be excited about that?
I have to admit (as ashamed as I am to do so) that there is a part of me that would be excited to see him sign on with the Braves.
I’m convinced Barry can still hit, and would still be a huge presence wherever he hit in the lineup. As Barry’s agent very recently pointed out, his trial isn’t until 2009, so there could be no interruption of the season for him.
And I honestly do believe there’s enough character on this team to keep it from being a distraction. Hank Aaron could make some public appearances with him to make the PR side of it go smoothly.
Setting ethical aversions aside, I think it would work. I think Barry could help this team a lot.
But the part of me that feels we should all respect the game is very glad he’s gone. I don’t think he should be welcomed back into a game that he brought so much shame upon.
In the end, I can’t sell my soul. I couldn’t applaud him, even if he were wearing the uniform of my favorite team.
By MIBravesFan
June 25, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this
By Choppinmama
June 25, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this
I swear Mike Maddux looks exactly like Father Guido Sarducci on SNL. Especially with the shades.”
Given Greg’s sense of humor, I’m pretty sure he’d love that one! That’s a really good one!
By Bobby's Cox
June 25, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this
KC
I’ll admit it too, I think it would be a good signing as well.
There’s a lot about hitting and baseball I think Bonds can teach these young kids. He’d also be a long way from home and wouldn’t seclude himself too much from the team.
I think he would be grateful of the opportunity and would be a better teammate than he’s been in years past. Wishful thinking maybe, but out of all the teams he could go to, this team makes as much sense as any, and Bonds will want to make a good impression playing for Bobby Cox i’m sure.
By MIBravesFan
June 25, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this
By Anders
June 25, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this
Hey O’Brien Have you given any further thought to investigating Soriano signing that suspicous two year deal and then showing up lame? I mean, it’s almost the 4th of July and the guy hasn’t pitched three times in a week yet and I believe he’s back on the DL. Maybe you want to call that grizzled old editor back to see how he would have handled it?
I mean, I thought it was suspicous back in January (You may remember ripping me about it) but by now even the most magnanimous observer would have to have some doubts.”
I’m sure if he bothers to reply DOB will do better, but two things come to mind immediately Anders - (1) aren’t you a Mets fan and don’t you have enough to blog about your own team’s problems on your own websites, and (2) didn’t your new manager just refer to Mets fans as “fertilizer”?
By bf54
June 25, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this
Anders (5:37) - you have a point, provided we leave the thought at the level of suspicion. I mean, yes, that occurred to me,too. What can I say, other than other than the obvious - that a small series of coincidence doesn’t prove a lot. I will say this, he sound’s like a whiner, and he ain’t no gamer.
By Joe
June 25, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this
any good rumors about any outfield help via trade?? Bay or Nady would be nice, also either Oswalt or Peavy would be nice!!!!!!!
By KC
June 25, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this
This may sound crazy but…
THESE BRAVES ARE LEGITIMATE WORLD SERIES CONTENDERS.
Sure, the Braves are under .500 right now. But recent history proves that doesn’t disqualify them.
The Florida Marlins were under .500 on this date in 2003… 12 games behind the Braves in the East, and 8 games in the loss column behind LA for the Wild Card. And of course, they went on to win it all that year.
The 2004 Red Sox, and the 2006 Cardinals were winning teams by this point in the year, but neither looked particularly impressive mid-way through the season.
The 04’ Cardinals, in fact, were in the midst of an 8-game losing streak on this date 4 years ago.
But while those teams weren’t playing to the best of their ability… they had the pieces to win it all. DO THE BRAVES?
In my opinion, yes.
Atlanta’s rotation is perhaps the deepest in the league, and the bullpen - with Gonzalez anchoring the 9th - seems to have a new lease on life.
The Braves are second in the league in ERA, and unquestionably have the pitching to win.
Offense, quite unexpectedly, has been the issue.
While all fingers are pointed at Frenchy (and there’s not doubt that his mega-slump has been deeply felt), it is Tex’s sub par offensive output to date that has hurt this team the most.
While Teixeira’s numbers (which look much better now than they did just 4 days ago) have looked far better than Francoeur’s, I would argue that he hit every bit as far below his potential as Frenchy through the first 12-13 weeks of the season.
When Tex is locked in, he’s as dangerous a hitter as there is in the game. And as the guy whose job it is to protect Chipper in this lineup… Teixeira is the key to everything.
If Tex simply has a typical (by his standards) second half, the Braves will score more than enough runs to win a lot of games (assuming Chipper is reasonably healthy).
Can one man make that much of difference? When that one man is a hitter or Tex’s caliber, and that one man hits directly behind Chipper… yes.
But I don’t think it will stop there. Assuming the Braves are still well within reach of the division leader a few weeks from now, Frank Wren will certainly make a move or two (or more) to bolster this team’s chances.
But either way, here’s the bottom line:
A team with this kind of rotation, a solid bullpen, and a lineup that includes Chipper, Teixeira, McCann, and some other quality hitters… DOES have the pieces to make a World Series run.
Will they? Who knows… we’ll have to wait and see. Maybe they’ll pull it all together; maybe they won’t. My point is simply to say, again… the pieces are there.
By bf54
June 25, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this
KC (8:35)post - you need to that when the legs go, they go, and Barroids have gone. One of the really great hitters of the mid-60’s through late ‘70’s was the great Rico Carty, but it was sad to watch him his last couple of years hobbling on those bad wheels of his-even though he had great bat speed and could still thread the needle and hit for power.
Barroid can’t play the field, can’t run, and is a distraction. Don’t know why there is such interest in him on this blog. He’s a large SUV now, get it?
By Tomas
June 25, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this
Too many injuries. John Smoltz and Chipper said it at the beggining of the season, “The team that stays the healthiest will win”. Braves aren’t out of it, but the absence of players in the team is a big deal. But they’re still in it because, the phils have gone 3-10 after they left atlanta and there june record is 10-11. The Marlins have gone 9-13, and the mets have 10-12. The Braves have gone 10-14, but nobody else has had a winning month and thats the reason they’re 4 gb and if the phillies lose there 7th straight they’ll be 3.5gb.
By KC
June 25, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
bf54: Of course he’s a whiner. But the Braves have had guys that are just as selfish in this clubhouse, and have managed to peacefully assimilate such players where other teams failed (Gary Sheffield comes to mind).
Barry would have to understand and follow the rules… and I think he would. He’d also have to understand whose team this is (Chipper’s)… and I think he’d get that as well.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not advocating the move. I can’t. I just can’t. Like I said, I wouldn’t be able to sleep at night if I cheered for the man, simply because he’s wearing a different uniform.
I think he’s brought a lot of shame to the game, and at home - away from the game, is probably the perfect place or him to be for the sake of the integrity of the game.
But I have to admit that if I were to remove my personal code of ethics from the equation… I would have to endorse bringing him on board.
By Cecil34
June 25, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this
KC
It is not only crazy, it is preposterous. Especially this year. I ain’t buying…
Ease up off that black tar heroin, brother…..
By Efrim
June 25, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this
So I see that Jordan Schafer is playing right field for Mississippi tonight…..
maybe that means something…..
Actually it is probably because Kotsay is playing center.
Jeff’s job is safe.
By KC
June 25, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this
To follow up on my post about the Braves World Series chances… I need to make one correction.
I indicated that the pitching hasn’t been the issue. That’s not entirely true. While the pitching overall has been very good… the absence of a closer has cost us a significant number of wins this year.
Without a doubt, if Soriano had been healthy the entire season, the Braves would be leading the division right now.
The good news is, the 9th inning hole has been plugged. Gonzo looks good.
By TennesseePaul
June 25, 2008 9:34 PM | Link to this
Bourn is a rookie, so obviously i’m talking about his minor league stats.
Fair enough. Wasn’t the debate on the need for Anderson to be up? His minor league stats show he is not an OBP machine, nor an XBH machine. But bully for Bourn. I’m glad the kid killed in the minors.
By Bench Stenchy
June 25, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this
I wanna know why other organizations don’t have a problem sending guys down that need work, but the Braves don’t wanna “hurt the feelings” of certain guys.
The Royals (the FRICKIN TALENTLESS ROYALS), send down former rookie of the year SS Angel Berroa, because the guy couldn’t play any more.
The Tigers sent Dontrelle Willis to FRICKIN’ “A” ball for crying out loud.
If you wanna stick to the Braves organization, the Braves sent Ron Gant down to AA ball to learn to play the OF, after they realized his bat was crucial to their rebuilding, yet his defense at BOTH 2B and 3B were detrimental to the team.
Kyle Davies, Chuck James and Jo-Jo Reyes were sent back down for more seasoning, after ALL had reasonable success with the “big” club.
Davies was then traded.
*Yet it is UNTHINKABLE to send Francoeur down to let him learn how to hit in games that the final outcome of DOESN’T MATTER.
Instead they send him to the eye doctor.
Brav-frickin-o!
I do not care who the Braves call up. There HAS to be SOMEONE better in the Braves’ farm system better than our .700 OPS right fielder.
Why is it that Francoeur plays everyday whereas Kelly Johnson is constantly fighting off platoons? Why does Francoeur get offered long-term deals and not Johnson and Escobar? Is there anything at all Francoeur does better than KJ? He doesn’t run as well, he doesn’t steal bases as well, he doesn’t hit, get on base or walk better than KJ. Maybe homerun power, but it’s not by much at all. Maybe defense…though right field and second base are not comparable in the least.
In my personal, meaningless opinion, this team currently has three good young position players: McCann, Johnson and Escobar. Please sign THEM long term (yes I know McCann already has one).
P.S.: McFann is a girl?!?!?!?
By Bobby's Cox
June 25, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
From Yahoo!
Teams have shied away, not wanting to deal with the glare of attention Bonds would bring. The outfielder, who turns 44 on July 24, has been offered by Borris to all 30 teams for a prorated share of the $390,000 minimum.
Borris said Bonds even would play for free—offering to donate whatever salary he receives to purchase tickets for children
Lesson learned in my college sports marketing class: Get em hooked young, then get em when they’re older. If Bonds really would buy seats for kids, that would be a way to recapture a fan base that has dwindled with the loss of TBS prodcasts and lack of media attention given to the team by ESPN.
I’m not worried so much as Bonds being a distraction for this team. I think the team needs a distraction right now to get their minds off of the injuries, 1 run losses, etc…
It’s never gonna happen, and I’m still not sure I’d be ok with it. But it’s food for thought.
By Bobby's Cox
June 25, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
From Yahoo!
Teams have shied away, not wanting to deal with the glare of attention Bonds would bring. The outfielder, who turns 44 on July 24, has been offered by Borris to all 30 teams for a prorated share of the $390,000 minimum.
Borris said Bonds even would play for free—offering to donate whatever salary he receives to purchase tickets for children
Lesson learned in my college sports marketing class: Get em hooked young, then get em when they’re older. If Bonds really would buy seats for kids, that would be a way to recapture a fan base that has dwindled with the loss of TBS prodcasts and lack of media attention given to the team by ESPN.
I’m not worried so much as Bonds being a distraction for this team. I think the team needs a distraction right now to get their minds off of the injuries, 1 run losses, etc…
It’s never gonna happen, and I’m still not sure I’d be ok with it. But it’s food for thought.
By KC
June 25, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this
Cecil34: Really man? Seriously?
As I just posted a few minutes ago, the lack of a stable closer has been a BIG deal for this team.
That’s been fixed.
The offense has been the other big issue this year…
If Teixeira starts hitting, and the Braves add a little (or a lot of) offense via trade… you don’t think this offense could score enough to win behind a pitching staff with the league’s second-best ERA?
Sorry man. I just don’t see the gloom and doom some others here do.
I see a team that has been just a little off the entire way so far.
When I look at the Braves, I see a team that is a turn of the wrench or two away from making a serious run.
The Braves have the 3rd best run differential in the league, and a LOT of 1-run losses.
To me, that says they’ve been a fraction off. They haven’t been outclassed this year… they just haven’t put it together yet.
But I say again… the pieces ARE there.
By Logan23
June 25, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
Mississippi 6-0 after 4.5 Tommy Hansen no hits 10k’s through five. Kotsy 2hits Schafer 2hits triple
By Pete H.
June 25, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this
Not to be boring, but I still think we can get Oswalt and Lee from the Stros. It will cost us, but I would trade Morton, Jones and a couple of our CF prospects for that package.
By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
June 25, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this
Foxsports.com has a very interesting article on Francoeur. The writer ponders whether the Braves should trade him, bench him or send him down to the minors.
The Braves are in a difficult position. No one can doubt that Francouer is killing this team right now. But, trading him away could be a bit premature considering he is only 24 years old.
I think sending him down to the minors would be the way to go but if that is done than who do the Braves call up? This is why it is pertinent the Braves make a trade for a productive outfielder.
By KC
June 25, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this
Pete H. There’s not enough beer in Germany to get the Braves to trade Morton.
No way, no how.
That kid has “ace” written all over him.
Nothing is a sure thing, but Morton is as close to it as you can get.
By Efrim
June 25, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this
Tommy Hanson’s line tonight: 6 IP, 0 Hits allowed, 2 BB, 11 K’s.
Easily his best performance in Double A. He is a keeper.
By Cecil34
June 25, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this
KC
Ol’ buddy, I will agree SOME of the pieces are there - I went today and doggone it, Campy can pitch - and apparently hit - so I feel that some of these guys could contribute on a consistent basis.
But there will have to be, and I mean HAVE to be a higher and consistent level of play from all players, and not just the starters.
Can you imagine for a moment sending Cork-wad to the plate to pinch-hit in a playoff game? Good Lord.
The biggest single benchmark this team has not accomplished is that they cannot and have not put together a string of 6 or 8 or more wins in a row.
A team that does this is a team that is clicking on all cylinders.
What we have going on in our division is parity, and that is what is giving Braves fans the illusion of competitiveness.
True, if Gonzalez can hold up, that is an important piece - true fact.
But to truly challenge the best and be competitive in a post-season world, Jeff has to produce, Kotsay has to be healthy and produce, left field - whoever it is - must produce, Chipper must stay healthy, Escobar and Johnson must consistently produce.
This has yet to happen. The lynch-pin in this whole deal is Jeff.
His presence in the lower order is critical when he produces. It is a momentum killer when he doesn’t.
Yes, most of these players could be contributors to a future WS run, but not now.
The stew needs more seasoning, so to speak.
By KC
June 25, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this
Robert (Chipper Is The Best):
I think the best course of action with Frenchy is to give him plenty of days off, hit him toward the bottom of the order, and be patient.
However, Frenchy’s struggles underscore the importance of picking up another big bat.
Jason Bay would be a perfect fit. He would, in essence, replace Frenchy’s bat this year… and could replace Tex in the cleanup spot next year, if the Braves are unable to keep him.
By KC
June 25, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this
Efrim: As Wren starts calling to inquire about guys like Bay or Nady, I’m sure Hanson is one of the first names that will come up.
I’m equally sure the Braves won’t part with him. I think they can find plenty of other pieces to offer up in such a trade without parting with Hanson.
By Chop Chop
June 25, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this
I just want to say congrats to Fresno State on winning the College World Series. They absolutely crushed us after we had the 5-0 lead in Game 2. Fresno State deserves all the credit in the world. They played with the kind of heart and guts that any sports fan can admire.
Diamond Dawgs, thanks for giving Dawg fans everywhere a season to be proud of.
By Efrim
June 25, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this
KC
Hanson is a keeper, but if you want Jason Bay, you are going to have to give up some pitching. Pittsburgh has NONE in their minor leagues. I say try to get Nady. He’ll cost less.
By Go Braves
June 25, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this
Whose going to the Braves Game on the Green event this Saturday at the Smyrna Market Village? I think it looks like a pretty cool event. Check it out: text to be linked
By Cap'n Phil
June 25, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this
Condolences to uga. Good run. Who picked out those peejamies fer y’all? Buck “šhitbed” Belue?
By Shamus Thacker
June 25, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this
McCann is one of my favorites, but why not a more appropriate bobble-belly doll?
By Roman Gal
June 25, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this
WOOHOO!!!
No-hitter!!
Tommy Hanson!!
By Efrim
June 25, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this
NO HITTER FOR TOMMY HANSON!!!
9 IP, 3 BB, 14 K’S AND 0 HITS!!!!
By james
June 25, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this
Not only a no hitter but also 14K’s!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Kev
June 25, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this
WOW!! Tommy Hanson!..NO Hitter…15 K’s…Brilliant…The Braves BETTER NOT Trade this kidfor some rental players…The kid is a KEEPER…
By N8
June 25, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this
If the goal is to give this team as much of a shot to win this year (which CANNOT be done without bolstering the offense - MAINLY the corner OF spots), while at the same time NOT sacrificing ANY of our future, signing Bonds makes ALL THE SENSE IN THE WORLD.
Especially if he truly is willing to play for the league minimum, and donate the salary to kids tickets.
But, if the Braves would rather give up 2 or 3…..or 5 (like they did for Tex), for somebody that likely wouldn’t have the impact, especially if that person is NOT under control for a few years…….that’s just fine too.
That’s worked so well the past two seasons, right?
Desperate times call for desperate measures. Signing Bonds surely would reek of desperation…..but it just might work.
By Doc Holliday (Overlord)
June 25, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
I hope none of the smart axxez that said hampton was a puzzy, saying he has made a great comeback and that they now suddenly love him.
This team will win the division.
Im 100% sure of it.
They already have what it takes to do so and what everybody just wishes for……
P I T C H I N G
P I T C H I N G
P I T C H I N G
They will fill in the blanks they are missing. I think more importantly is not lose CHIPPER.
Great SP, very good BP. Doesnt that always (at least) wins division?
Go Braves!!!!!
Kotsay and Prado, hurry back…..we do need you badly to get this done.
By David O'Brien
June 25, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this
Braves have no interest in trading Tommy Hanson, Kev. Wouldn’t worry about that if I were you.
By David O'Brien
June 25, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this
Looking forward to getting a real scouting report from Kotsay on this kid Hanson. Didn’t get to see him pitch in the spring, but have heard nothing but great stuff about him.
You guys (and McFann) would’ve loved the scene in the clubhouse after the game, when McCann had one of the bobbleheads out and said, “It ain’t me. He looks too good.”
By David O'Brien
June 25, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this
Yeah, Efrim, Schafer in RF means Kotsay is there on rehab. And that’s all it means.
By ColoradoBravesFan
June 25, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this
WOW… looking at the game log from Thomas Hanson’s no hitter, that must have been some pitching performance. Mr Hanson pitched 9 innings, 14 Ks, 3 walks and 2 hit batters. I copied the game log from innings one and two below. Hanson loaded the bases in the first with walks and hit batters but escaped without any hits or runs. He hit the first batter of the second inning, then after that, he gave up nothing!!! Only a walk in the 8th. If my math is correct he retired 24 of the last 25 batters he faced.
Birmingham Barons - Top of the 1st Miguel Negron walks.
With Victor Mercedes batting, Miguel Negron steals (14) 2nd base.
Victor Mercedes strikes out swinging.
With Javier Colina batting, wild pitch by Thomas Hanson, Miguel Negron to 3rd.
Javier Colina strikes out swinging.
Cole Armstrong hit by pitch.
Ricardo Nanita walks. Cole Armstrong to 2nd.
Stefan Gartrell pops out to catcher Jose Camarena.
Mississippi Braves-Bottom of the 1st J. C. Holt lines out to second baseman Robert Hudson.
Matt Young flies out to left fielder Ricardo Nanita.
Mark Kotsay grounds out to first baseman Javier Colina.
Birmingham Barons - Top of the 2nd Robert Hudson hit by pitch.
With Erick San Pedro batting, passed ball by Jose Camarena, Robert Hudson to 2nd.
Erick San Pedro strikes out swinging.
Robert Valido strikes out swinging.
Miguel Negron called out on strikes.
AGAIN WOW…
By Chop Chop
June 25, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this
Why can’t cool stuff like this happen in Atlanta?
Shawn “Chaka Khan” Chacon, I feel for you.
Sounds like Ed Wade is a punk. “The Bourn Mediocrity” continues to be alive and kicking in H-Town due to Ed Wade’s ineptitude as GM. I really hope he gets canned for all of this. It would serve him right.
By KC
June 25, 2008 11:53 PM | Link to this
Cecil34: I CERTAINLY won’t argue that the Braves are going to have to play better to have any chance. Of course that’s true.
It will be important for Frenchy to produce, though if we could pick up another bat, such as Nady or Bay, I think we could get around Francoeur’s stuggles.
“Escobar and Johnson must consistently produce.”
I’m not sure what you’re talking about there. I think they’re doing their job.
Escobar is hitting .296, and is on pace to drive in 60 from the top of the order. KJ is hitting .286, and is on pace for 15 homers, 70 RBI, and 44 doubles.
As far as reeling off 6 or 8 wins in a row… I think injuries to position players, and not having a closer has had a lot to do with not having had such a streak.
When I say “the pieces are there”, what I’m saying is this…
This is pretty much the same lineup the Braves had on the field in the last couple months of last season, when the Braves’ offense was wearing out opposing pitchers.
Sure, Andruw’s gone, but that’s not much of a loss. It might actually be addition by subtraction.
The difference is that Tex and Frenchy (half of the meat of the order) have been no-shows.
The biggest key BY FAR is Tex. To make a run the Braves MUST have 3 things:
1 - A big second half out of Tex.
2 - A reasonably healthy Chipper.
3 - A healthy Mike Gonzalez.
Frenchy is important too, certainly. But again, I think we can get around his struggles if we add another bat.
If we keep getting the pitching we’re getting, get Tex going, and get a little more offense from the bottom of the order (Frenchy snaps out or Wren makes a move)… the Braves will be in a position to have a great second half.
And if the Braves can make it to the post-season, this starting pitching will give the Braves a chance to win ANY series.
By David O'Brien
June 25, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this
ColoradoBravesFan, I once covered a Marlins game at San Diego where A.J. Burnett threw a no-hitter with nine walks and one hit batter. Talk about a memorable no-no….
By Roman Gal
June 26, 2008 12:04 AM | Link to this
DOB On the front page of this lovely website one of your stories is entitled Infante Injured on Double.” In the caption is a little typo…Rookie *strains hamstring, but hopes to avoid DL; Kotsay, Hampton make rehab appearances.
Just thought I’d let you know…
By Roman Gal
June 26, 2008 12:12 AM | Link to this
Of course as soon as I press “post” it is gone. Smart…
By rupert
June 26, 2008 12:35 AM | Link to this
so basically hanson looks ready, i say give it a go, what hell right? haha only kidding
By Lew
June 26, 2008 1:09 AM | Link to this
Where is that moron now that swore Hanson couldn’t make the adjustment to AA and was giving me inordinate amounts of grief when I claimed he was going to be good? Does anyone still think the Braves are producing no pitching in their farm system after how JoJo and Morton have come along and now this? Looks to me that our rotation may well be quite good for some time to come.
By BA
June 26, 2008 1:10 AM | Link to this
Braves should sign Bonds? That’s the dumbest thing I’ve seen from n8. Maybe we should bat Tex sixth. Maybe we should trade for Milton Bradley as well. Or get Marcus Giles back. Maybe he could bat cleanup, in place of Tex, of course. We could play Bradley in right when we “send Frenchy down”. Smart stuff.
By Shamus Thacker
June 26, 2008 1:29 AM | Link to this
You’re so right Lew. Young Guns 2.0. Aw as we say up heah’n Polk Kownty, Yunguns [pronownced: yung-uns] 2.0.
Did’n Nolan Ryan hav’alotta walks in summa his no-nos? At’s eckzackly what I thawt.
By Shamus Thacker
June 26, 2008 1:33 AM | Link to this
I’m shamed as a Southerner, for failing to pronounce no-nos, as naw-naws…. If Paw Paw’uz alive he’d shoot me.
By Wayne in Utah
June 26, 2008 1:43 AM | Link to this
I thought in the beginning of the year, that a platoon of Bonds and Diaz in left might make for some interesting times in Bravesland.
But, on giving it more thought, what a slap in the face of King Henry with such a move.
WTG Hanson!!
How many more weeks of improved play will Schafer have to put up before he gets a callup.
I also agree with many that Blanco and Anderson are not the answer. Jury is still out on BJones.
By Shamus Thacker
June 26, 2008 1:46 AM | Link to this
I’m not gonna get involved in the n8 bashing, but anybody [and I mean anybody besides n8] who thinks we should sign Bonds, is plagued by phylosophical baseball idiocies rooted in big creamy piles of fecal blatherings.
By nolie
June 26, 2008 4:55 AM | Link to this
On a similar note to your “dove/dived” reference: why is it that “the bird flew away” but “the batter flied out to the left fielder”?Mike
because if he “flew” out to the LFer the guy wouldn’t have a glove big enough to catch him in?
By ncscoots
June 26, 2008 6:34 AM | Link to this
Foxsports.com has a very interesting article on Francoeur.
The “expert from afar” syndrome strikes. That article says no more than what some posters here have been saying in the midst of the Francoeur bashing. But the byline gives credibility to the same reasoning from a different source, I guess, LOL.
I, for one, will admit that I thought Campillo would have come back to earth by now. I mean, 29-year-old Mexican Leaguer, right? Instead, he looks as if he’s getting better each time out. Maybe the Braves get one of those Jorge-Sosa-the-good years out of him. Failing that, it wouldn’t kill me to see him back in the bullpen, shoring up middle relief, either. In any event, good on Jorge, way to go, man.
By Bill
June 26, 2008 6:45 AM | Link to this
The Braves management are crazy and I mean crazy if they start trading prospects. They have given enough away. What has Tex done? They are barely playing 500 ball with him. I would do nothing, unless it’s to trade Tex. He’s not coming back to the Braves. Baltimore is going to offer him a big contract. He doesn’t care about winning, just the money. It sounds crazy but regardless where they are in the standing’s, get him out of here. I would rather have some prospects than draft picks. If the Braves fall out of race the one that’s gets traded probably will be Ohman.
By Braveheart
June 26, 2008 7:15 AM | Link to this
The “expert from afar” syndrome strikes. That article says no more than what some posters here have been saying in the midst of the Francoeur bashing. But the byline gives credibility to the same reasoning from a different source, I guess, LOL.
Scoots, the “expert from afar” is alot closer than you think.
By prattvillenolzfan
June 26, 2008 7:18 AM | Link to this
Glad to see some others are starting to think Bonds might be a good fit..
I mentioned this in a post earlier in the year when Diaz was struggling. A Bonds/Diaz platoon would work fine
I personally think Bonds would NOT be a cancer in the clubhouse. The Giants allowed Barry to be Barry. Scheurholz/Wren/Cox would be very upfront about the expectations of being a Brave.
Bonds was quoted along time ago that he would love to play for Cox. As long as expectations are clearly defined upfront, I don’t see any problems with his personality.
Besides, we did well with malcontents such as Sheffield. Sheffield knew what was expected of him, and he had no problem. The only problem Sheffield had was at the end of his time here, he said the Braves lacked the fire. That is, we didn’t play with any emotion…(Remember his comments right before he was traded). However, Sheffield was always first class about everything he did..
I say if we give Bonds an excentive-laden contract, we don’t have nothing to lose….Besides, I’ll hate for the Mets to make a go for him….
I know there are MANY of you out there who will disagree, that’s certainly your right…But IF you look at it objectively, it makes sense….
By Braveheart
June 26, 2008 7:36 AM | Link to this
But, on giving it more thought, what a slap in the face of King Henry with such a move.
The Hammer didn’t think it was a slap in his face when was getting paid to do a commercial with Barroid a few years ago.
By Efrim
June 26, 2008 7:53 AM | Link to this
Yeah, Efrim, Schafer in RF means Kotsay is there on rehab. And that’s all it means.
Yes. I know. That is why I said Jeff’s job is safe.
By David O'Brien
June 26, 2008 8:39 AM | Link to this
Waiting for this 9:40 a.m. flight to Toronto. We’ll probably get a new blog up early afternoon, provided there’s enough traffic here on the off day (traffic on the blog, that is; not on I-285 or the Downtown Connector)….
Surprising to see couple of folks here are actually discussing Bonds. Seems like the only time I hear his name anymore (or rather, read it), is here on the blog. Hey, no problem with the discussion. Just surprises me to still see it….
By Will
June 26, 2008 8:48 AM | Link to this
I would take the Braves signing Bonds any day. He has been humbled to the point i couldnt imagine him coming in and causing any trouble. Bonds is one of many many many players mixed up in the PED era and i guarantee the Braves had people on their team using a few years ago and have players on the team right now who have used them at some point. There are many outrageous trade ideas thrown around on here, but i seriously think that Bonds would not be a bad idea. That being said, no way in hell it happens!!
By Anders
June 26, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this
Efrim
What’s up? Sorry I didn’t get to respond to your question about Manuel using the word Gangsta until now. I wasn’t crazy about it. Just didn’t seem appropriate from a manager. That aside, I’m not sure about Manuel. I’m already tired of his repeated off the cuff references to wanting a three year deal from the Wilpons after this year. He wasn’t in the job 24 hours when he started making jokes about it. I do think he has refocused the team on being more fundamental. Not sure it matters but it sure beats having them thinking about Randolph’s pending ouster. I still believe letting Peterson go was a mistake. That seemed more vindictive than warranted.
BTW- in the “it’s a small world” category, you and I were referencing the Mets first round pick Ike Hayes on the Monday blog. Well Tuesday morning I had to take my daughter to The New York Hospital for Special Surgery for a follow up on some ankle surgery she had there two weeks ago. We’re waiting to see her doctor and who walks in and sits right next to us with his agent to see the same Dr. but none other than Ike Hayes! We knew this because his agent couldn’t have said “Ike Hayes from the Mets to see Dr. …” any louder. Apparently Ike is his first pro client. I’m guessing the Mets wanted some medical clearance on something ankle related for him before validating his signing. Tall guy but needs to fill out. I told him we could use him at first right away. He grinned and said he needed to do his time in the minors first.
By flange1
June 26, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this
Will,
Excuse me did you say the words Bonds and humble in the same sentence?
And did you say that Bonds WAS humbled?
WOW!!!
I did not know that was possible.
Bonds being humble is like well let me think
Babe Ruth on a diet?
Lou Gehrig getting caught gambling on baseball?
Pete Rose being a preacher?
Al Sharpton being, ok, you get the picture…
I think what N8 was trying to say if the team was looking for production in LF and not having to give up the farm like we did for Tex, Bonds is an option.
I think that is a true statement.
But I still don’t want him on my team.
By Will
June 26, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this
Flange1, I meant Bonds at this point has to be humbled to an extent by being basically blackballed by every team. I know the Braves arent going to sign him and i dont think they should, but my post is no worse then the numerous asinine trade ideas i see on these blogs every day. I know i am in the minority, but i guess i just dont hold as much disdain for Bonds as many other people do. He was a hall of famer before the juice and can be a grade A jerk, but he is no different then many of the other numerous people that cheated.
By Will
June 26, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this
One other thing on Bonds is that if people wouldnt want him on there team cause he is a prick then i totally respect that, but for his PED use i disagree. Do we honestly think Bret Boone wasnt on something as a brave? Ryan Klesko? Javy Lopez (one of my favorites) hits 43 homers in a contract year and never had come close to that in the past or the future. Why is Marcus Giles unsigned right now? his production took a crap as soon as the crack down happened.
By McFann©
June 26, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this
By David O’Brien
June 25, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this
Good to hear, Choppinmama. If McFann can get this message, I’ll give her my McCann bobblehead (I’m on the motorcycle today, not much room in backpack).
So nice of you to offer DOB. Sorry I couldn’t get your message sooner.
Am I too late??
(BTW—Funny scene from the clubhouse. Hey, Chip said that kind of plastic was expensive stuff…)
Oh, and I forgot to mention the great job they did of promoting All-Star voting at Turner Field! Wow! You could hardly keep up! I musta filled out enough ballots to put McCann in the starting roll over Soto before the third inning! It was almost too much!
Obviously I’m not serious. A dime-sized sticker that read “Vote for the Braves” stuck to the hoof of that cow would have been an improvement…Maybe I missed something…
By ghbrave
June 26, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this
DOB,Just reviewing stats from Jordan Schafer this year. Although he is hitting only .258, his OBP is .389. In the last 10 games he is hitting .343 with a .489 OBP(10 walks in the past 10 games)! HOWEVER when reviewing his splits, he is hitting .358 vs right handers and only .111 vs lefties. He also has 26 strike outs in 89 AB(14 strike outs in 36 AB vs lefties)for the year. I cannot find lefty/righty splits for him prior to 2008…has he had problems with lefties before this year?
By Anders
June 26, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this
Forget how Bonds would act in the clubhouse etc..
The absolute media circus that would come along with him would make it next to impossible for most teams to operate. Maybe the Yankees or Red Sox could handle it (I’m not saying either of those teams would want Bonds) but most others would be crushed by it. Personally I’m past the steroids thing with Bonds as now seeing how many players (especially the older ones) are breaking down and how far down the power numbers have fallen I’m starting to believe that Ken Caminitti wasn’t as far off as many thought when he said 90% (?) were using in some form. I think it was closer to 75% but certainly a lot more than many of us suspected (hoped). But from the media circus aspect I wouldn’t touch him. You think DOB gets cranky now, how do you think he’d be sharing his space with about 75 other scribes?
By ernesto
June 26, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this
.200 is the Mendoza line, Corky is about to fall under .100, what line is that?
Should be the unemployment line.
By Cody
June 26, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this
I think about the only oF the Braves can get without giving up much in return are going to be either Raul Ibanez or Randy Winn. Both play on teams that are baout ready to start over and have managable contracts through the rest of the year. If it were me for the power you would go with Ibanez but for lead off potential I would go with Winn. Look at the line-up this way. Which one would you perfer. 1. Winn, 2. Kotsay, 3. jones, 4. Tex, 5. McCann, 6. Escobar, 7. Johnson, 8. Francour. Bad thing with that is Escobar would have to move down or simply switch him with Kotsay. Second: 1. Escobar, 2. Kotsay, 3. Jones, 4. Tex, 5. McCann, 6. Ibanez, 7. Johnson, 8. Francour. Either way look at it if the Braves to get another fielder Fancour will continue to move down in the line-up.. I just don’t see Bobby hitting kelly eight he is just too good of a hitter. Both line-ups look good and remember all of you don’t want to trade the farm, we could probably Send Chuck James and two B prospects for one of these two guys. Although Seattle maybe a little relunctant since we screwed them on the Rameriz deal.
By flange1
June 26, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this
Will,
Sorry, not trying to be a jerk, and I agree with your comments on Bonds, I just got a kick of the line
Bonds is humbled…
That will be the day! Maybe when he is convicted in court!)
While I usually disagree with most of what Anders says, I think his take is spot on. Bonds might not be a clubhouse cancer, but the media circus that would follow him and the team could do nothing but cause damage to the team.
By keylargo
June 26, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this
Below .100 is the AndruwJonesLine in honor of AJ’s performance with the Dodgers this spring.
By N8
June 26, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this
“Although Seattle maybe a little relunctant since we screwed them on the Rameriz deal”
Did we REALLY?
Soriano had a very nice year for us last year (didn’t get us anywhere, did it?). For the Mariners last year, HoRam had a horrible ERA, but the team went 9-11 in his 20 starts. So he gave them a 50/50 shot at winning.
NEITHER team has gotten anything from either of them this year, and add to that the Braves signed a guy with a bum arm to a 2 year deal.
Seems to me, that NOBODY has gotten screwed by the other team in this trade.
That being said, if Soriano is healthy next year and helps anchor our bullpen, I might change my mind, but keep in mind with the contract extension, it’ll cost us about 6 million next year.
By Anders
June 26, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this
Ernesto
I think you’re referring to the “Bendova Line”, because that’s what it would take to keep your MLB job at that point.
Apologies to McFann if she’s listening.
By MGL
June 26, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this
It should be an interesting weekend for the East race. Braves at Toronto Phillies at Texas Mets at Yankees Snakes at Miami
By AGTfan
June 26, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this
Condolences to my UGA friends and congrats on a great season for your diamond dawgs. I watched the final 2 games and it struck me as a triumph of attitude over talent. Even when they were down 5 - 0 in game 2 Fresno State players were smiling and lose. I loved the comment by one of the Fresno State players that they were just a bunch of goofballs having fun. There’s at least one Brave’s player (JF) that could use a double-shot of that attitude. Consider that the CWS MVP played the entire series after dislocating all of the fingers on his throwing hand and the kid who re-wrote the record books yesterday was playing with a totally severed ligament in his thumb. I loved it when the freshman shortstop made his third error of the game and the pitcher just turned around and laughed and told him not to worry. The guy was totally unflappable.
I was pulling for UGA, but you really have to tip your hat to Fresno State.
By McFann©
June 26, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this
Thanks, Anders.
By Lew
June 26, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this
Bonds humbled? Bonds knowing his role? Who cares?
When all is said and done, he’s a 43 year old player who can play, at best, one half to one third of the time. His defense is questionable at best. His range in the outfield is non-existent. His knees are shot to sh!t and he hasn’t played organized baseball in nine months. Opposing pitchers will walk him most of the time.
Why in the name of sanity, would we pay multiple millions of dollars (don’t kid yourselves he will play for the minimum) for an old, chronically injured player with few defensive skills, that won’t get to swing the bat all that often. Humbled, my @$$. Who cares? Besides, like someone above mentioned, it’s massive disrespect to The Hammer.
By Lew
June 26, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
Besides-Bonds bats left handed and we need the right handed part of a platoon.
By atown
June 26, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this
DOB, thank you for the lyrics! One of my all time favorite Cash tunes.
By Supes
June 26, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
KC, while I admire you bringing up Barriod and the Braves, I would have to say NO to that idea.
Just the idea of Barriod tainting the Braves uniform is enough to make you say NO.
If FRANCINE keeps up this abismal play, when Kotsay returns, he should be sent down to AA to work on “things”.
Let see how much balls FRANK WREN actually has. The whole “He’s going through a time speech” is nice…but a time doesnt’ mean 3 months. FOLKS, outside of 2-3 outstading games by Jeff, he’s been below average, at best for the 3 month stretch. How much longer do you have him on the team killing rallies with RISP and making mistakes in RF?
Send him down to AA for a few weeks to get “straight”. I’m sure the Braves will make due without his bat in the lineup.
Have Kotsay, B. Jones, G. Blanco, even call back up Josh Anderson and sent down one of these relievers Bobby doesn’t use. Need more players coming off the bench.
The idea of Corky “waste of space” Miller and his stellar .110 average at the plate with the game on the line…yeah, opposite pitchers dream!
By Efrim
June 26, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this
Anders
Hey man, I hope your daughter is all right. I think it is Ike Davis, but anyway, that is really awesome that you got to meet the guy. He probably has more upside than Mike Carp and could be in Shea, I mean CitiField, by spring of 2011. The Mets had two good picks. Jerry Manuel won’t last. What do you think about the Phillies? I think once they start facing worse pitching, they will get back on track and pound teams. Their starters are still performing well. The difference between the Phillies and are teams is that they detroy bad pitching. The scrubs seem to hold the Mets and Braves down from time to time. What do ya think?
By Run Heap Run!
June 26, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this
Don’t worry, DOB some of us are still sane and have no interest in Barroid. Nevermind what fans want or don’t want, the braves org would NEVER sign Bonds. Not even if he played for free.
Speaking of roid rage…nice story out of Houston. Cold cocking your GM? Damn.
By Quack Quack
June 26, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this
Besides, like someone above mentioned, it’s massive disrespect to The Hammer.Lew
didn’t look like the Hammer cared very much about that when he took payment to do an add with Bonds a while ago
By ncgary
June 26, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this
would the cubbies take the big aussie stockman for murton, or would it take more? if stockman isnt in plans hes getting past prime age already,might as well try and get a bat, cubbies need a reliever and left bats, braves have some of that, murton wants out because he isnt getting enough playing time
what yall think it takes,?
3 way with seattle toronto and braves? frenchy to seattle bedard to toronto and marcum to atl??
or go with the flow?lol
By Roman Gal
June 26, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this
McFann Voting is over with at the stadium. We asked a lady about it and she said they mailed off their last ballots on Monday.
By doug
June 26, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this
Reggie Sanders is waiting for a call.
By Doc Holliday (Overlord)
June 26, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this
Bonds?
That really makes me laugh…….
Another 40+ heading to DL within a week? No thanks
By Anders
June 26, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this
Efrim
Thanks for the thoughts on my daughter. She’ll be fine - just a gymnastics injury she needed taken care of. Mike Carp is another Mike Jacobs, modern day Dave Kingman’s. I don’t see the Phillies starting pitchers holding up. It’s a long hot summer in that ban box. Even winning 8-6 wears on a staff. I will say that the Phillies are a better team than I thought they were. I thought they had the best athletes but wasn’t sold on them as a team - but they’ve actually held together pretty well. Give credit to the good Manuel for that. A year ago there’s no way I thought Manuel would last with the Phils and now we have two Manuels managing in the division.
By Lew
June 26, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this
Quack Quack-Duck Dude, it makes no difference about what Hank has done in this regard. This is an organizational thing. The BRAVES should not disrespect Hank like this. I still believe he did what he did to ease the situation and end the controversy for MLB. Hank is a big man. His Organization should treat him as such.
Besides, like I mentioned earlier-he’s old, often injured and we don’t need yet another older player who will spend time DL’ed and he bats the wrong way for the platoon that is proposed. Don’t we already have enough of these paragons?
By Big Easy
June 26, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this
Gotta say, Anders, that was funny.
~E~
By Efrim
June 26, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this
Ed (CT): Is Tommy Hanson, Cole Rohrbough and Brandon Jones enough to get Jason Bay?
Keith Law: (1:15 PM ET ) Probably … but Atlanta’s not really in a position to do that now, are they? I’d like to think they’d get a few games over .500 first.
By McFann©
June 26, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this
Oh, OK. Thanks, Roman Gal.
By brent a.
June 26, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this
Quack-Quack, I am nearly 100% certain that Aaron did that commercial with Bonds before “steroid mania” hit major league baseball.
Sure, Bonds was doing whatever he was doing back then; but, it wasn’t being discussed yet.
By N8
June 26, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
Lew
If you wanna argue that the Braves don’t need to go down the path of signing Bonds so the don’t “disrespect Hank”, I’m cool with that.
I can’t argue that signing Bonds would be sending a mixed message to fans (even though the TOP message would be that they are trying to win at all costs - without mortgaging the future by trading prospects). There WOULD be some fan backlash for signing him.
But for you to wast not only one post, but two complaining about Bonds being the “wrong half” of the platoon because he is left-handed, is not only silly, it’s ignorant. Check the stats.
In 6510 Career AB’s against RHP, Bonds has batted .303 (.458 OBP!!!! - Yeah…that’s for his CAREER), 537 HR, 1338 RBI, .627 SLG and an OPS of 1.084.
In 3337 Career AB’s against LHP, Bonds has batted .289 (.416 OBP), 225 HR, 658 RBI, .568 SLG and an OPS of .985
You’re right. Dude has struggled BIG TIME against LHP. LOL!
In case you think those numbers are skewed by his “prime of his career years”, in 2007 his OPS against RHP was 1.073 and against LHP was .971.
In 2006 it was 1.011 and .970, respectively.
So far this year, in 255 AB’s, Chipper has an OBP of .485, he’s scored only 45 runs. That tells me two things. The hitters behind him are NOT coming through, and (or) he’s legs are not allowing him to score from first on routine doubles, or from second on routine singles.
Either way, he’s on base and his legs are beat up.
Last year, in 340 AB’s, Bonds had an OBP of .480, he hit 28 HR and had 66 RBI, while scoring 75 runs. If you pro-rate that DOWN to the AB’s that Chipper has has this year, Bonds 21 HR, 56 Runs Scored, along with his 49 RBI compare VERY MUCH to what the UNSTOPPABLE Chipper Jones has done this year.
All off the field trouble aside…..explain to me again, why and how we couldn’t use a guy that would essentially give us another guy like Chipper in the lineup?
As for Bonds not playing ball in 9 months? Dude could take 2 years off, and be more productive than Jeff is right now. Surely he would be a better LF option than Greg Norton?
Hell, knowing his splits against LHP, I’d take him as the “right-handed” half of a platoon over Matt Diaz.
Like I said. If you take all of the off the field stuff and the “disrespect” to Hank out of the equation, the dude would help this team score runs.
You’ll lose that argument anytime you try and say differently.
On the other stuff, you are certainly entitled to your opinion, and I won’t fault you for your stance.
By flange1
June 26, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this
Efrim,
Was that you talking to Klaw?
By Doc Holliday (Overlord)
June 26, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this
Reggie Sanders?
Bonds?
You people are starting to sound like braves executives……. picking up leftovers.
Please, stop that, we need baseball players, not whatever other teams leave out there for us to take…..
Thats why we are are in trouble right now.
They love building around players that are already injured or that are way too old (KOTSAY, JULIO FRANCO, GLAVINE, SORIANO, GONZALEZ, SMOLTZ (with all due respect). Thats option #1 for braves executives.
Option #2 is building an inexperienced team so they can go as cheap as possible. Dont get me wrong. I love our current SP, but 2-4 have pitched less innings than Hudson in their careers combined. Bullpen….. there is no 5 year veteran there.
OF, only guy with more than 5 seasons is kotsay and he is injuried.
Middle IF and catcher…..same thing.
I know all of them are great player, but the lack of leadership is the reason for this inconsistencies. The is no identity on this team, because they are too young and the old guys are chipper and TEX. TEX has been on vacation all season and chipper has been injured lately.
They just dont know how to step up.
By Threadkiller
June 26, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this
How do we improve a mediocre pitching staff? Offense!! Since there are no decent starting pitchers available without mortgaging our farm system, how do we improve with what we have? Offense! Who can we bring in without a blockbuster trade that can put up numbers and strike fear into opposing pitchers? Randy Winn?? How did the Oakland A’s win the World Series with an average starting pitching ERA over 5.00 ? Offense!!!!!!!
By David O'Brien
June 26, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this
Bonds might not be a clubhouse cancer, but the media circus that would follow him and the team could do nothing but cause damage to the team.Flange1
“Worst teammate I ever had,” is the quote I got regarding Bonds from a veteran player who spent several years with the Giants. He said the feeling was shared by most others on the team, and that it was not divided along racial lines.
By Efrim
June 26, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this
Flange1
Was that you talking to Klaw?
Yes. I didn’t use my real name, don’t ask me why. I just wanted to see if a deal like that would be enough. Some people here think sending scraps to Pitt for Bay would work. That’s freaking bogus. Look at the Pirates, Bay and Nady might be their only trade pieces right now. Snell and Gorzelanny have been terrible and their value has without a doubt taken a hit. If you are Neal Huntington(Pirate GM), I would most definetly ask for Hanson AND Rohrbough back for the franchises best player in a while. Pirate fans have gone through enough, how p** off do you think they would be if Bay was traded for fringe regulars? They will want a couple star prospects back.
As for Law’s response, he is right, wouldn’t be smart to make a move like that right now. And they won’t. FW is too smart for a bone headed move like that. I was just throwing it out there.
By beachcomber
June 26, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this
Catching up with a week’s worth of blogs. Wish I had the techno knowledge etc. to connect on the road.
Some encouraging stuff - Hansen, Kotsay, Prado. And as one blogger said what a weekend coming up with the various match-ups involving NL East teams.
Seemed like a bit of piling on re: Escobar. i.e. “only” hitting .279 over the last many games. Have we looked at our line-up? Right now .279 is All-World.
The kid deservedly got thrown out of the game - but it remains another “Eric Cooper moment.” Haven’t forgoten that guy since he blew a call that would have ended the meltdown inning back in the Houston playoff a few years back.
By David O'Brien
June 26, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this
ghbrave, Schafer hit better againt righties before, but never anything close to the huge disparity between his righty/lefty splits this season. Don’t know if it’s because he’s facing better lefties or just because he started out so slowly or what. Still a fairly small sample to work from, but he’s definitely struggled against them big-time this season….
Anders, why on earth would there be “75 other scribes” covering Bonds? Once he broke the record last year, there was almost zero interest in his subsequent home runs. The traveling media circus that had followed him split up and all went back to other stories.
The only interest now is in his trial, which doesn’t take place until March. He turns 44 next month. How many productive position players can you think of in recent memory who were that old? Julio Franco, whose main skill was hitting the ball the other way, again and again.
Who else?
By Threadkiller
June 26, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this
N8: I agree! What a line up that could be! Escobar Johnson Hoss Tex Bonds McCann Frenchy Kotsay Pitcher
Who do you pitch around??
By flange1
June 26, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this
Doc Holliday,
I am sorry, I don’t get your argument.
The Braves have a limited payroll.
They want the best players they can get.
They have many slots on the team filled by home grown talent and yes they are young.
They try to fill the other holes with vets, like Tex, Diaz, Kotsay, Glavine and Corky.
So who should they have signed?
I know it is easy to say”the corporation” is the problem, but I don’t see any solution to your suggestion
By brent a.
June 26, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
“So far this year, in 255 AB’s, Chipper has an OBP of .485, he’s scored only 45 runs.” N8
N8, that is valuable information, and to be honest, as much as I enjoy the game, I’ve never bothered to analyze numbers in that capacity before. But, seeing that sent me searching, and the first name I came across was Lance Berkman, the National League’s 2nd leading hitter. But, before we analyze Berkman, here’s some color to your Chipper Jones’ stats.
Chipper has 300 Plate Appearances on the season, including the 46 walks he has earned. His .485 OBP puts him on base 145 times. Out of those 146 times on base, he has scored 45 runs. That means he is scoring 31% of the time he gets on base, but only 15% of the time he comes to the plate.
Berkman 319 plate appearances (including 41 walks), and has a .443 OBP, putting him on base 141 times. He has scored 68 runs, meaning that he has scored 48% of the time he has been on base, and 21% of the time he has come to the plate.
For another comparison, the numbers on A-Rod:
70 hits, 26 walks, in 242 plate appearances. OBP of .403. 40 runs, meaning he has scored 42% of the time he has been on base; but has only score 17% of the time he has come to the plate (still higher than Chipper).
By N8
June 26, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this
I don’t really expect to the Braves to go after Bonds. I suspect he’ll be out of work for the remainder of his life.
DOB’s quote from an ex-teammate speaks volumes. The Braves aren’t THAT desperate….yet. And even if they were, they would never admit it by signing him.
That being said, I’d support that move more than I would giving up prospects for Jason Bay or Xavier Nady.
Those guys aren’t gonna “save” this season.
Bonds actually has a legitimate shot at changing how a pitcher pitches and an opposing manager, manages against the Braves (or any lineup he’d join).
Would HE save the season? More than likely not. But as I stated before, signing for little or nothing, wouldn’t hinder upcoming seasons either.
After two weeks, if the guy is a cancer in the club-house, or just flat out isn’t productive….RELEASE HIM.
No more risk in taking a chance on him, than there was in going after Scott Speizio, is there?
By Heath
June 26, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this
Dave:
Speaking of San Diego, I am in San Diego right now on a business trip. I’ve heard you rant and rave about the fish tacos out here so much that I decided to get some for dinner last night (along with some calamari). Gotta say, good call man! I ate at this place called Jake’s in Del Mar right on the ocean, heard of it? The food was good, the atmosphere was good, and the scenery was quite nice…oh, and the view of the ocean was nice too “wink wink.”
By Heath
June 26, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this
Dave:
Speaking of San Diego, I am in San Diego right now on a business trip. I’ve heard you rant and rave about the fish tacos out here so much that I decided to get some for dinner last night (along with some calamari). Gotta say, good call man! I ate at this place called Jake’s in Del Mar right on the ocean, heard of it? The food was good, the atmosphere was good, and the scenery was quite nice…oh, and the view of the ocean was nice too “wink wink.”
By Braveheart
June 26, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this
Schafer looks like he is raising his average. Looks like he has many more walks this season and a few more Ks.
Could his early struggles have been caused by forcing himself to be more selective at the plate?
I remember Schafer telling DOB at the AFL something about wanting to work on taking more pitches and stuff so that he could become a better hitter and more of a true leadoff hitter.
It could be that his early struggles were just a result of trying to work counts deeper for the sake of learning but sometimes finding himself too deep in an unfavorable count.
I dunno. Haven’t seen him play. Just speculating based upon something he said in the past and the increase in walks he has this year.
Like alot of minor league stats, you can’t take them too seriously because alot of times they are working on things they are not comfortable doing in order to further their development. So I think his relatively low average may be deceptive and not indicative of his natural ability because he is working on improving something less natural to him.
But still, Schafer has over 12 extra base hits through 24 games and 18 walks. That would be over 80 extra base hits and over 100 walks over the course of 162 games. That would work very nicely if he could carry that over to the majors.
By Wonderdog
June 26, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this
Trade Francoeur for the rights to Steve Detwiler of Fresno State. He can hit, play right field, and showed that he can come through in the clutch.
By N8
June 26, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this
DOB
On a side note (gotta get away from this Bonds talk), what’s your though on the “mini-sodes” that Rescue Me is giving us this summer?
I say it’s just enough to tease me and pizz me off that the there isn’t full episodes to watch. Though I laughed at the one the other night with Garrity and his fast, 4 minutes wasn’t NEARLY enough.
By David O'Brien
June 26, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this
Happy 52nd birthday, Mick Jones (The Clash).
By Efrim
June 26, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this
Mark (Chicago): Keith, I saw that Julio Teheran came out after 2 innings the other night. Was that a relief appearance or did he leave for some other reason? (IE injury) Can’t seem to find anything online about it…
Keith Law: (2:11 PM ET ) I’ve got a call and email in to someone in ATL to ask about this. They’re being secretive about it, which is strange, to say the least.
Well, that sucks. I have been asking about this since it happened a few nights ago. A real bummer if it is a serious injury.
By David O'Brien
June 26, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this
Heath, I haven’t been there, but most everything in Del Mar is mighty fine, isn’t it?
Ate some fish tacos last night at a great Mexican place in Atlanta — Nuevo Laredo Cantina on Chatahoochee Ave., just across I-75 between Howell Mill and Moores Mill roads. Terrific food.
The salmon tacos weren’t as good as the chicken mole. That was outstanding. Salmon isn’t a particularly good fish to do fish tacos with. Gotta go white fish — your tilapia, mahi mahi, grouper, whatever.
By David O'Brien
June 26, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this
N8, agreed on the Rescue Me mini-sodes. What is that? That’s torturous, like getting 4 minutes of Tony Soprano. I need an hour of Rescue Me soon. Many hours. And also The Shield. Unfortunately, not going to get any more hours of The Wire.
By N8
June 26, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this
Brent a.
Thanks for the info on the runs scored.
Like I said, runs scored is a stat that (just like RBI) relies on those around you.
But a guy with no speed (or healthy legs), can still knock in runs with guys on base. A guy with nagging injuries to his legs, might not score runs even IF the guys behind him have been hitting.
McCann has surely been hitting, and Tex has even been OK with RISP.
So that tells me that Chippers legs are preventing him from scoring a FEW more runs. That being said, the dude hustles his azz off when the opportunity to score comes around. So I’m NOT accusing him of dogging it.
I just think it’s laughable that a guy as intelligent as Lew is would try an use the argument that we can’t use Bonds in this lineup, yet if somebody claimed we have no use for Chipper, they’d be tarred and feathered. LOL!
As for Bonds’ horrible defense in LF? Sure it’s bad. But he certainly is no worse than Diaz or Norton. Hell as far as that goes, he might not be any worse than B. Jones has been out there lately.
The ultimate question comes down to what do we want out of our LF, offense or defense? If we simply want defense, than Blanco and (or) Anderson should be the LF. If we want a straight platoon out there, why not just wait for Diaz to come back? His bat surely (against LHP), isn’t gonna be any worse or better than anybody out there to be had, is it?
If Jason Bay and Xavier Nady is what we are setting our sites on to “save the season”, we might as well wait for Diaz, IMO.
If Wren wants to make a splash, why not sign Bonds, see what he can do. If the answer is NOTHING or he disrupts the club-house, you release him (and are out NOTHING), and STILL make a trade before the deadline.
By Tomahawk Kris
June 26, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this
People please stop the madness - we don’t need Bonds. I repeat we don’t need Bonds. What are you people thinking??? I bet you were the same people clammoring to get Joe Blanton earlier this year and you are probably the same people that were foaming at the mouth for the Braves to pick up Rocco Baldelli.
If the Braves make a move for an experience offensive player it shouldn’t be someone who is part of an ongoing federal investigation. I trust that Frank Wren will make the right move if the situation presents itself and if not - well it ain’t the end of the world.
By KC
June 26, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this
N8: “That being said, I’d support that move more than I would giving up prospects for Jason Bay or Xavier Nady. Those guys aren’t gonna “save” this season.”
I might be reading too much into your statement. But should I gather from your statement (that those guys can’t “save this season) that this season is lost and almost beyond hope?
If so, I’m not sure I get it.
The pitching, now that Gonzo is anchoring the 9th, looks fantastic… so let’s look solely at the offense.
This is essentially the same lineup that tore opposing pitchers apart in the last 2 months of the season.
The only difference on paper between this lineup and the lineup of August/September of 07’ is that Andruw’s gone (and no one will convince me that there’s any loss to the offense there).
The REAL difference is that Tex and Frenchy (half of the heart of your order) have been no shows.
I think a strong argument could be made that if Tex hits in the second half as he did throughout the first half (prior to the last few days)… neither Nady nor Bay will be able to compensate for that.
However, I do think either of them are more than capable of making up for Frenchy’s deficiencies.
In short, if Tex has a typical (by his standards) second half, and Chipper can be reasonably healthy in the second half… the Braves will make a run at this division.
And if the Braves are already in the thick of the race, a guy like Jason Bay COULD very well make the difference.
If Tex is doing his thing, a lineup like the one below is every bit as potent as the Aug/Sep lineup last year. And if you put last year’s offense with this year’s pitching… you have something there.
Think about this lineup:
1 - Escobar
2 - Kotsay
3 - Jones
4 - Teixeira
5 - McCann
6 - Bay
7 - Johnson
8 - Francoeur
Also, both Nady and Bay are under contract through 09’, so it wouldn’t be all about this season. Bay, in particular, would be a very capable cleanup hitter next year if Tex departs for greener pastures.
By MGL
June 26, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this
It would be nice if those of you who want to post about Bonds would mention it first. That way it would be easier for those of us not interested in reading about that idiot can just scroll by.
N8, I’m dissapointed in you.
By FloridaBrave
June 26, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this
Right Braveheart I wouldn’t look too much into Schafer’s mediocre average considering his strong OPS. He’s showing better patience and power which is a good sign in his development. The one thing he does have to work on is hitting left-handers though if I remember his splits correctly. I still think he’s an option for the Atlanta Braves soon with Blanco looking overmatched as a starter. I think a Schafer/Diaz platoon will do the trick.
I’m just ecstatic about the state of our minors. Almost all of our prospects are putting up impressive numbers. It’s tough not to be disappointed about our team this year but it helps me at least to think about what we could be building for the future.
By KC
June 26, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this
DOB: Who is Julio Teheran ?
Supes: Please understand… I was just making conversation. I was not advocating that the Braves pursue Bonds.
By flange1
June 26, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this
KC,
The only thing I would tweak in your line up is the 8 hitter.
I know Frenchy has struggled this year, but hitting him in the 8 hole WILL NOT HELP HIM IMPROVE.
He will not get many decent pitches to hit.
Put him 7 and KJ 8.
By ncscoots
June 26, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this
If Wren wants to make a splash, why not sign Bonds, see what he can do. If the answer is NOTHING or he disrupts the club-house, you release him (and are out NOTHING), and STILL make a trade before the deadline.
nathan, that’s like saying burning down the patio while grilling is OK, because you’ve still got the kitchen to cook in, LOL.
You wouldn’t be out your capitalized “nothing” in the worst scenario. You’d be out time, his poor performance in games, and clubhouse atmosphere. The first two are non-recoverable, and who knows how long it would take to clear the rancid smell from the third?
By Run Heap Run!
June 26, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this
Is DOB already in Toronto?
By ernesto
June 26, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this
I just hope we don’t make the mistake of trading good young arms to solve the offensive woes.
I know for every Adam Wainwright regret there are probably 7 or 8 Dan Meyer-type deals that swing heavily in the favor of los Bravos - BUT -we’re not going to get to be getting in/winning any bidding wars for dominant #1 type pitchers, I think we should hang onto as many potential stud arms as possible.
By KC
June 26, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this
By the way… if you go after either Nady or Bay, I say Bay is the guy to pursue for two reasons:
1 - He’s a better choice to bat cleanup next year if Tex leaves.
2 - In terms of being able to re-sign either Nady or Bay after 09… Nady’s agent is Scott Boras$.
By Efrim
June 26, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
FloridaBrave
What did you think about Hanson’s no no?
By KC
June 26, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this
flange1: Agreed. Probably best to keep Frenchy out of the 8th slot if you want him to snap out of this thing.
By N8
June 26, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this
KC
“But should I gather from your statement (that those guys can’t “save this season) that this season is lost and almost beyond hope?”
Offensively, this team needs SOMETHING. Don’t they?
“The pitching, now that Gonzo is anchoring the 9th, looks fantastic…”
Let’s let him pitch back to back to back games with the game on the line, before we consider him to be “anchoring the 9th”. His presence will surely help, but lets not get ahead of ourselves.
“This is essentially the same lineup that tore opposing pitchers apart in the last 2 months of the season.”
It’s the same people, but the results haven’t been the same. We’ve got rookies in LF. We’ve got the choice of a guy with a bad back (who has been good when healthy), and another rookie in CF, and our RF is no-where NEAR what he did last year with RISP, and the end of his slump doesn’t appear to be “around the corner” anytime soon.
“I think a strong argument could be made that if Tex hits in the second half as he did throughout the first half (prior to the last few days)… neither Nady nor Bay will be able to compensate for that.”
Exactly.
“However, I do think either of them are more than capable of making up for Frenchy’s deficiencies.”
But that JUST takes care of one corner OF spot. They are both week. Let’s not forget that Diaz was UNBELIEVABLE in LF late in the year last year.
“In short, if Tex has a typical (by his standards) second half, and Chipper can be reasonably healthy in the second half… the Braves will make a run at this division.”
Are we trying to make a run at it, or win it? In 2006 and 2007, one could reasonably argue that we made a “run at it” in those 2 seasons.
“And if the Braves are already in the thick of the race, a guy like Jason Bay COULD very well make the difference.”
I won’t argue that point. But you’re assuming that the players that are under-performing are gonna step up. I’m assuming they won’t and thinking that we need to make a move to replace THEIR lack of production. If Tex and Francoeur join in the fun AFTER a trade is made…..GREAT. All the better.
“Also, both Nady and Bay are under contract through 09’, so it wouldn’t be all about this season. Bay, in particular, would be a very capable cleanup hitter next year if Tex departs for greener pastures.”
Good point. But there is NO DENYING that Jason Bay is gonna cost us some prime prospects. Also, let’s not forget that we essentially have the same record as the Pirates do. Why are we looking to be “buyers”, and it’s assumed that they are selling?
MGL
“N8, I’m dissapointed in you.”
Really? Sorry.
By ernesto
June 26, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this
Since when does Frenchy need decent pitches to hit?
By KC
June 26, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this
ernesto: Well I wouldn’t worry about anyone like Morton or Hanson going anywhere.
Ya know, truthfully, I think Chuck James has a fair amount of trade value for the right suitor.
People forget that despite his flaws, he went 18-11 with an ERA of about 3.70 over a 40 start stretch dating into the second half of last year.
Things when downhill for him 2/3 of the way through the season when his shoulder started bothering him… but given the success he has had at the major league level, and his dominance at AAA so far this year.. I could see some real trade value there.
The Braves will probably have to give up at least one pitching prospect, but could probably avoid giving any of their top few pitching prospects.
Chuck James, one solid minor league arm, and a couple really good position prospects… maybe that would be enough to get a big bat in here.
By Cody
June 26, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this
Folks I have looked at the next three weeks and have decieded that the Braves could very well have a 1/2 game lead on the Phillies by then. Oh, what’s that I am crazy well look at this senario and save it to throw it in my face at the All-star break. i will predict the Braves will be 50-45 at the break while the Phils will be 50-46. To make this happen the Braves will need to go 11-4 over there next 15 games and the Phillies will have to go 7-10. This is very possible when you look at the remaing 1st half scdule. if you take away the Phillies series next week the braves will not play another team above .500 until after the break. The Phillies will have 9 games against above .500 teams and if ATL is winning it will be 12 games against .500 or better teams. The key to this whole senerio is the Braves taking 2 of 3 from Philly Mon-Wed. That is very releastic considering Hamels will not throw in the series and the Braves will send out Campillo, Morton and JJJ which you go to like your chances aaginst. Oh yea we will also miss Moyer who has really hurt the Braves. The remaing braves sche. 3 with @ Toronto (predict sweep), 3 with Philly (2-1 Braves), 3 Houston (2-1, Braves, maybe sweep considering their turmoil, if that happens Braves may have game and a half lead at break), 3 @ LA (2-1 Braves win) and finally 3 @ SD (2-1 Braves win) All road games are against teams that we swept during our last homestand meetings. Again this is not out of the relm of propability. The rest of the teams we face have rough pitching staffs. The Phils will finish first half with Oakland today Harden pitching against Eaton, four with NYM, three against ARI, three against Texas and three with ATL. If we arn’t in first by the break we will be closer than four and a half games. This is the stretch were the Braves need to captilize if they don’t season will be over at break. Again GO BRAVES and go ahead and start bashing my prediction I know someone will.
By Cecil34
June 26, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this
N8
I already covered all that with KC last night - was a slow night….
By KC
June 26, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this
“Let’s let him pitch back to back to back games with the game on the line, before we consider him to be “anchoring the 9th”. His presence will surely help, but lets not get ahead of ourselves.”
Granted. Gonzo has to be sharp and healthy.
“It’s the same people, but the results haven’t been the same. We’ve got rookies in LF. We’ve got the choice of a guy with a bad back (who has been good when healthy), and another rookie in CF, and our RF is no-where NEAR what he did last year with RISP, and the end of his slump doesn’t appear to be “around the corner” anytime soon.”
I still contend that the lineup I posted above, with Jason Bay in it (again, assuming Tex plays up to par) is every bit as good as the lineup we had on the field in Aug/Sep of last year. That is to say, such a lineup would likely be one of the top 2 or 3 best in the league, and would score MORE than enough to win.
“But that JUST takes care of one corner OF spot. They are both week. Let’s not forget that Diaz was UNBELIEVABLE in LF late in the year last year.”
Diaz was great. And if Bay is in left (assuming Diaz weren’t traded) he might see some time in right with Frenchy. And again, I contend that the above lineup would be one of the league’s best… CERTAINLY good enough.
“Are we trying to make a run at it, or win it? In 2006 and 2007, one could reasonably argue that we made a “run at it” in those 2 seasons.”
OK, I’ll clarify… make a strong run at it with majority odds to win the division.
“Why are we looking to be ‘buyers’, and it’s assumed that they are selling?”
Because they’re 12 games out, and we’re 4.5 games out. And frankly, we have more ability on this team. We have injured players that could come back and help, and just got one back in Gonzo. We have one of the games’ best second-half hitters, who hasn’t come to life yet (well, maybe he has the past few days… we’ll see). Also we have much more financial flexibility to be able to make needed moves to improve.
Good points, all! =)
By ernesto
June 26, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this
Cody, personally I like your prediction, except this, right now, doesn’t look like an offense that’s poised to go on an 11-4 run. And last time we phaced the phils they took 3 in a row.
Damn you, fly ball, damn you all to hell!
By N8
June 26, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this
Cody
I apologize if this next statement offends you.
But with your scenario you’ve put in place with your last post, I can’t help but imagine that you are living in a world, similar to Brad Pitt’s character “Floyd”, that he plays in Quentin Tarantino’s “True Romance” starring Christian Slater.
Like I said. Sorry. Even the king of all optimists, would laugh at your scenario.
Too funny.
By Anders
June 26, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this
DOB
Anders, why on earth would there be “75 other scribes” covering Bonds? Once he broke the record last year, there was almost zero interest in his subsequent home runs. The traveling media circus that had followed him split up and all went back to other stories.
Do you really believe if Bonds came back with any team it would be largely ignored? I mean, come on. I didn’t mean they’d be there to see him hit HR’s but if you think the general sports public wouldn’t want to look in on him with some new team you really aren’t getting it. The reason they left last year was the story was over. The new story would be Bonds playing in some other town and what effects it would have. What do the fans think? What do the players think? Did he bring his lazy boy? Blah, blah, blah. Every town he came too would have a contingent of sports and non sports reporters waiting for him and the team.
The 75 was for effect I don’t actually have a head count but I think you get the drift. Maybe you’re reacting to me kidding about your always sunny disposition - that was meant in good fun.
By BA
June 26, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this
Maybe all the resident retards that think Bobby Cox should go should check out the Mark Bradley article today. Cody, you know better- we’re all supposed to assume the season is over! We’re going to send Frenchy down, trade Tex (or bat him sixth) and wait ‘till next year! That is unless we make the crucial move to sign Bonds, because he could save our season! The team could rally around that guy for sure! Maybe we should trade for Shawn Chacon as well- just leave him alone when he’s eating, Frank Wren.
By FloridaBrave
June 26, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this
Efrim,
It’s exciting. Especially since he said he was working on some new things and they finally started to click. when players say thing like that you can’t help but get excited about their development. I was never worried about his slow start in Mississippi- that’s all it was. I couldn’t believe it a month ago- but if he’s still around for next year- a Hudson, JJ, Reyes, Morton, Hanson rotation is very plausible. Once can argue we can’t depend on a staff that young and expect to make the playoffs- and that’s fair- but it’s still exciting to think about.
By KC
June 26, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this
Cody: Could happen, provided…
Chipper is ready to take the field after we leave Toronto (or very shortly thereafter).
Teixeira keeps banging.
And of course, the pitching keeps cooking.
By Efrim
June 26, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this
FloridaBrave
I agree. Have you heard anything on Teheran? I posted a Law comment up top. He left his start after walking a batter in the 2nd inning. I think he could be hurt. Hopefully he isn’t.
By KC
June 26, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this
Looking ahead to the Phillies series…
With an off day (for both the Braves and Phillies) before the Phillies series, the pitching match-ups could go one of a couple different ways, depending on whether or not the Braves or Phils skip a starter.
If the Braves skip Morton’s turn, it will be Campillo, Hudson, and Jurrjens to oppose the Phillies.
If not, it will be Morton, Campillo, and Hudson.
If the Phillies skip a turn, it will be Kendrick or Eaton in game 1, then Meyers and Hamels.
If they don’t skip anyone, it will be Kendrick, Eaton, and Myers.
The Phillies begin a homestand against the Mets the day after the series finale in Atlanta… so I would guess they won’t skip anyone, and will have Hamels open up that homestand back in Phili.
If so, that should certainly be a break for us. And whether it’s Campillo, Hudson, Jurrjens or Morton, Campillo, Hudson… I like our pitching for that series.
By MGL
June 26, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this
Braves now only 2 games behind Marlins. Fish lost to Rays today.
By BA
June 26, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
So Gonzalez is throwing 94-95 mph. He’s converted both of his saves and he struck out two yesterday. He threw something like nine rehabs. But were “waiting” to see if he’s healthy?! What will it take, a no-hitter?
Now that’s “too funny”.
By Efrim
June 26, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this
KC
Why would the Braves skip Morton’s start for the Phillies series?
By Tomahawk Kris
June 26, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
KC,
Just as long as we don’t have to face Jamie Moyer - that guy is incredible.
By Hoosier Aaron
June 26, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
With all due respect - I think Jason Bay is more of a liability in the field than an asset at the plate.
The guy takes horrible angles, plays many balls on a hop that he should catch and has a weaker throwing arm than I do.
And - he is a horrible baserunner.
By N8
June 26, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
KC
“Because they’re 12 games out, and we’re 4.5 games out.”
Very true when speaking of a Division Title. However, the Wild Card leading Cardinals are in the Central (as are the Pirates), meaning we are BOTH the same distance out of the wild-card.
“And frankly, we have more ability on this team.”
Really? So then we are simply under-achieving? Or is the manager costing us games?
“We have injured players that could come back and help, and just got one back in Gonzo.”
Please tell me you’re not talking about Mike Hampton? As for Glavine? Surely he could come back and help. But last time I checked, our pitching isn’t the issue (one COULD argue, based on what Glavine did when healthy, we aren’t any worse off with Charlie Morton).
“We have one of the games’ best second-half hitters, who hasn’t come to life yet (well, maybe he has the past few days… we’ll see).”
I’ll believe it when I see it. And will apologize and concede I was wrong IF it happens. But the dude is playing for a contract with Bora$$ as his agent, and I have a feeling the pressure has gotten to him. We’ll see.
“Also we have much more financial flexibility to be able to make needed moves to improve.”
Again, when comparing to the Pirates, I agree with you. However, let’s not forget that the Mets are the Mets and the Phillies probably have MORE “financial flexibility” than we do, so if you’re expecting them to sit still, guess again.
Which puts us right back to fighting for the wild-card (against 6 or 7 other teams - all of whom we’ve got to not only pass in the standings - but BEAT when we play them).
Don’t get me wrong. We’ve got the talent and “potential” to win the division. But we did last year AND in 2006 too. I’ll go with the recent track record of how this core of players have performed at crunch time, vs. your “prediction” of what MIGHT happen in all things go well in the 2nd half.
Too pessimistic on my behalf? Probably. But seriously explain to me why I should realistically think other wise until it’s proven to me with results.
But your responses were very fine responses, IMO.
By BA
June 26, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this
If the Marlins and Tampa play in the afternoon, and nobody’s there to watch it, does it make a sound?
By CODY
June 26, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this
N8 I believe you are a professional pessamist my friend many are forgetting that Kotsay will return and will probably move blank “o” back to LF or at least platoon. i also think you will see B. Jones get sent down to make room for Kotsay. also prado will be back and will take the place of Gotay. People Kotsay makes a big difference to the offense because he puts the ball into play and that is not the case for B. jones. who strikes out alot. I factored in the fact that Kotsay’s return will spark the offense. What is going to help this team finish strong is the 3 game series that will await them returning from Canada they will be pumped to pay the Phils back and Kelly will have a big series. It isn’t the fact that I live in another word its just this offense is going to wake up its to good not to. Even if “frankcanthitacour” hit .270 with 20 homers we still have better production than with andrew. I believe some want this team to fail, but mark my word an offesive tear is about to happen. We arn’t going to face very good pitching for a while. Make fun all you want this team will be close at the break. it’s not a huntch, its knowing this team can play better and know they have a chance thanks to the Phils recent struggles. For all the people saying it over look at the standings (WE ALWAYS PLAY BETTER IN THE SECOND HALF.) IT WILL HAPPEN THIS TEAM HAS TOO MUCH POTENTIAL.
By rupert
June 26, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this
morton hasn’t done anything to have his start skipped, with jj and jojo you want to give them the extra day of rest when you can, they arent used to throwing this many innings, though they better get used to it, they are going to be the anchors of this rotation for awhile…
By MGL
June 26, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this
Cody, I like your analysis, good work. I hope they don’t push Chipper or Escobar too hard in Toronto. We need both of them plus Kotsay back for Philly.
By N8
June 26, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this
BA
“If the Marlins and Tampa play in the afternoon, and nobody’s there to watch it, does it make a sound?”
Let me get this right. There are two teams with better records than the Braves, and Braves fans are mocking them? Too funny.
As for Mike Gonzalez’s health?
Like I said. Get back to me when Cox can use him 3 days in a row. As soon as he can do that, and be successful, and NOT have any setbacks.
I’ll concede he’s “back”. Until then, he is just a good arm in the pen taking a roster spot that can only be used a couple of times a week.
Of course, it might actually be 2010 before this team has 3 “save” opportunities in a row, with this offense.
So you might be right. In relative terms to how often we “need” a closer…..Mike Gonzalez is BACK!
By BA
June 26, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this
The Phillies have more “finacial flexibility”? And that’s based on…Sounds like in the interest of making post number three hundred of the day that someone is talking out of his azz. But what else is new. Everybody knows when your 4 1/2 games back of the division lead before the All-Star break, that you might as well concede and settle for the Wild Card. I’m sure that’s what the Braves are thinking. After all, how can you win with the cleanup hitter under so much pressure that he only hits a measley thirty-five homers and drives in a miniscule 120 runs. We are surely doomed…if only they’d make the “big splash” and sign Bonds. Even then, we’d still be stuck with the fourth most winningest manager in baseball history “losing” games for us. Drats.
By CODY
June 26, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this
Phils losing 2-0 in the 4th at Oakland. Braves could be 4 back at the end of the day. WOW we really are out of it. N8 - new abreviation for dumbass. man you need to give it a rest. You are probably a little boy who doesn’t get much attention.
By KC
June 26, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this
N8:
Yes, the Pirates aren’t out of the Wild Card race yet. Granted. But the truth is man, however you try to spin it… the Pirated DO NOT have the same level of ability as the Braves.
The Braves are where they are because they haven’t played as well as they’re capable of playing. The Pirates are where they are because they have.
The Braves run differential (a stat I looked at before it was in vogue) is plus-41. Pittsburgh’s is negative-47.
Again, you can have a very powerful engine, but it will still run like sh!t if something is out of balance. Not enough fuel or enough spark, and the driver will think “what a piece of crap”. Could be… or it could be that there’s a lot of power there, and it just needs to be brought into balance.
The run differential and all the one run losses would suggest that the Braves are not incapable… they just haven’t been firing on all cylinders.
The Pirates don’t have the same pool of talent to be able to say “this team’s capable of much better”.
Assuming Gonzo is right and healthy… the pitching is in great shape.
As for Tex… no way to predict the future, but if you’re laying odds in Vegas, you’d have to bet on a very good second half from Tex, just based on the facts. There’s a lot of precedent there.
As for help in the form of injured players returning…
Gonzo just rejoined the bullpen, and he has already made and impact. Diaz should be back pretty soon, and Kotsay should be back sooner. And yes… Hampton could make a contribution in the second half. No, I’m not holding my breath, but I haven’t forgotten how he looked in the spring. Could happen, certainly not banking on it.
N8, as for whether the Phillies and Mets will sit still… here’s the thing:
What the Phillies and Mets need (starting pitching) is FAR more difficult to come by than what the Braves need. The Braves learned that first-hand last year when they offered the best package or young players available at the deadline, and still couldn’t reel in a top-tier starter.
Alrighty… the last word is yours my friend. I have to go pretend to work. =)
By CODY TEACHING N8 THE FACTS
June 26, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this
People stop B*** about Franky he is going no where. Braves using him on the marketing front. Look at it this way he won’t demand a huge chunk of change at arbitration. Not with his numbers. LOL
By BA
June 26, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this
Yeah, you’re right Mr. Marlin Gusher. Those two teams have better attendance than the Braves. COMBINED! Maybe not even then. By the way, hwo far out are the Braves in the A.L. Central? Because that’s absolutely as relevant as the N.L. Wild Card.
By Efrim
June 26, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
You can’t bash N8 for thinking that this team is out of it. Now personally, I don’t think they are out of it. But the Braves have been the type of team that makes their fans think they are going to get going, and then fall flat on their faces. It is frustrating. Making predictions like this team is “World Series” caliber is ridiculous. With a healthy John Smoltz and Rafael Soriano? Maybe. How about taking a step back and watching some more games? We’ll find out soon enough(by the All Star break) if this team is in it or not.
By CODY TEACHING N8
June 26, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
Just found out N8 is a Royals fan in hiding. That is way he is always bashing for losing. Oh yea that comment was funny N8 about the Marlins -Rays game but I guess you wouldb’t know that being an IDOIT I don’t think you actually got it thats why you were knocking whoever posted. Gotta head to the golf course so I will leave N8 with this “If a doctor told you that they discovered you had a brain would it make you smart.” I would guess not. “In the words of Red on That 70’s Show “Shut-up you dumbass, before I break my leg off in your @$$
By Adam
June 26, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this
N8,you sound like you need a tissue.
By FloridaBrave
June 26, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this
Efrim,
I haven’t heard anything and I’ve been look as much as I’m sure you have been.
Teheran doesn’t get enough hype. He’s a special prospect. I hope he’s ok.
By TennesseePaul
June 26, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this
KC: Julio Terehan is actually one of Lew’s favorite minor league pitchers in the Braves system. He was signed at a very young age, 16. He has high upside. A cannon arm, supposed to hit high 90’s maybe 100’s. Also has several other pitches as well. He’s a few years away I’d imagine. Julio Teheran was ranked by Baseball America as the top ranked pitcher in the international free agent class prior to his signing in July 2007.
This season he is pitching for the Danville Braves. Here are his stats. After 2 games he has a 3/1 K/BB ratio and a 3.87 ERA, but he only pitched 2innings last outing giving him 7 total professional innings…
By N8
June 26, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
Did Cody (the guy who has no concept on how to use paragraphs), just call me a dumbass?
Wow. Too funny.
BA
“Everybody knows when your 4 1/2 games back of the division lead before the All-Star break, that you might as well concede and settle for the Wild Card.”
I’ll take you one step further. With a core group of players that have played .500 ball for almost 3 years, (and the “4th winningest manager in baseball history” having NOT been able to get them over the hump, leading the way), this team should forget about the wild-card too (since we’re farther away from that than the division title), and move on.
But I’m sure when they’re 9 games down with 10 to play, you’ll still be talking about how great Cox is, and how they’re not mathematically eliminated yet, right?
Being optimistic is one thing. Being blind and oblivious to what has happened for 3 years, add in all the injuries this year, is just funny.
“if only they’d make the “big splash” and sign Bonds.”
Why is that a “big splash”? Signing a guy who last year, had an OBP better than Chipper has this year, and his agent said is willing to play for the league minimum?
Making a “big splash” would be trading 5 prospects for a guy that didn’t make the team any better….check that…..didn’t calculate to more wins than they were already getting before he got here.
Oh wait…..we did that last year.
You haven’t been paying attention. The “big splash” is the LAST thing I want Wren to do.
Trading prospects for Jason Bay would be a “big splash”. Signing a guy for about 200K for the rest of the season, would be far from a big splash.
Here’s some numbers for you.
All of our guys that have played either of the corner OF spots this year (Norton, Diaz, Francoeur, Blanco, Brandon Jones, Josh Anderson), have combined for the following:
865 PA’s, they’ve been on base 285 times (.331 OBP), with 89 runs scored, 14 HR and 87 RBI.
In 2006 and 2007, Bonds had 954 PA’s, getting on base 440 times (.461 OBP), with 149 runs scored, 44 HR, 143 RBI.
Pretty sad when one guy playing seasons at 41 & 42 years old can outperform 6 combined guys, huh?
And the guy can be had for LESS money than Corky Miller is costing the Braves.
By Efrim
June 26, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this
Florida Brave
I think he does. Jim Callis said he has the best arm in the system. 92-95 fastball, 81-83 curve, 78-80 changeup. Plus arm. Hopefully he isn’t hurt.
By TennesseePaul
June 26, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this
N8: Too pessimistic on my behalf? Probably. But seriously explain to me why I should realistically think other wise until it’s proven to me with results
Why you should think otherwise? Because you’re a fan, it’s summer, they’re the Braves, and it’s fun. What happens when they lose? Nothing.
What happens if they win, more fun.
What happens if you just moan and complain about every little minutia you can find regardless?
Stroke, heart attack, carpal tunnel, boring the rest of the blog, loss of entertainment value of the game, and the worst thing… you sound like a nagging wife.
By N8
June 26, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this
CODY TEACHING N8
Cody, how about you teach yourself how to use paragraphs. It will make you nonsense much easier to read.
As for NOT getting the joke? Yeah, I got it. I don’t like BA, never have, never will (I’m sure the feeling is mutual). If he WERE to have a funny joke, i wouldn’t acknowledge it. This one wasn’t funny.
By the way…the term is YOUR AND IDIOT. By not know that, I’ll assume you haven’t been on the blog long enough to know how much sarcasm comes out of my mouth. For that sir…..You’re the idiot.
BTW BA Your joke was a little funny.
So “attendance” makes the team, huh?
All these years I thought the Cubs sucked? Hmmm.
By Crazy Stats Katz
June 26, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this
“In the words of Red on That 70’s Show “Shut-up you dumbass, before I break my leg off in your @$$
Wow! A That 70s Show reference. And a quote from the show that could have been made without reference to the silly little show since the phrase used is not one that is especially intelligent or unique to the show. A real cultured fellow.
What’s next? A Perfect Strangers reference? Get out of the city, Cody. Don’t be ridiculous.
By Tomahawk Kris
June 26, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this
N8,
Good lord man, you are one miserable basturd. I think if you are this down on the team you should just quit watching them. Seriously dude - this can’t be fun for you. The point of the game if for fans to take some time out of their daily grind and relax. I admit I get bummed out when they lose, but you act like you hate the Braves for losing. It’s just baseball man - lighten up!
By Tomahawk Kris
June 26, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this
Question: What’s the best way to become a target for vitriol and hatred on the Braves MIB Blog?
Answer: Be optimistic about the Braves.
Wow - this place is getting depressing.
By Bill
June 26, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this
Cody—- Keep on dreaming but I hope you are right. I just don’t see the Braves getting in this year. To many injuries and not enough hitting. SP doing ok.
By FloridaBrave
June 26, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this
Efrim,
IDK, I don’t think he’s talked about as much but on the flip side that might be fair since he hadn’t pitched professionally until two weeks ago. I think he makes it to Rome before the end of the year if he stays healthy and rockets up our prospect list. I’d put him 7th right now behind Heyward, Hanson, Schafer, Hernandez, Freeman, and Rohrbough roughly in that order.
Btw, you see Stark’s Rumblings where he said we aren’t looking at Holliday if only because we don’t have the prospects to offer? What kind of crap is that?
By RR
June 26, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this
philly is down 0-3 now after 7
By Efrim
June 26, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this
Florida Brave
Yes, it is a bunch of crap. Stark has no idea what he is talking about. The system is just as strong as it was last year. My top ten would be Heyward, Schafer, Hernandez, Hanson, Teheran, Rohrbough, Freeman, Flowers, Locke, Hicks.
By MGL
June 26, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this
Posted this morning on the Danville web site “On the mound for Danville on Thursday will also be Julio Teheran. He is ranked the no. 10th best prospect in the Braves farm system and his fastball has been routinely clocked in the mid-90s.” So I guess he is OK.
By TennesseePaul
June 26, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this
FloridaBrave: if only because we don’t have the prospects to offer? What kind of crap is that?
I saw that. I don’t know if he was saying we didn’t have the prospects to offer due to their projected depth/surplus, or that we just don’t have any prospects whatsoever.
The Teixeira deal went down and sent a group of players that were blocked. Elvis was blocked by, at the time, Renteria, Escobar and Lillibridge. Saltalamaccia was blocked by McCann, Sammons, Pena and apparently Miller. And apparently the pitchers we sent the team saw them as more of a surplus than a necessity.
This summer though our depth at position players isn’t as “deep” when looking at the top prospects. Heyward will be in our outfield. Schefer as well. But you hold on to Gorkys due to his youth and low level of playing and due to the need to see how Schafer both adjusts to higher level play and bounces back from the HGH thing. And obviously with the pitching, you don’t want to trade any more until you are certain that the 4 rookies currently in the MLB rotation are the real deal and not pulling a Zack Duke.
By OrlandoFan
June 26, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this
I think N8 needs to read a bit of “How To Win Friends and Influence People.”
By AGTfan
June 26, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this
Hang in there N8. You can be as negative as you like in my book. I always get a kick out of what you have to say. I think it’s more fun to be positive and you feel better if you vent your frustrations and fears.
By ernesto
June 26, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this
Philly down 4-0 in bottom of the 8th.
By Efrim
June 26, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this
MGL
Thanks for the info on Julio. Very strange. If he is on the hill tonight, maybe they pulled him on purpose? I doubt they are converting a 17 year old into a reliever. Oh well, I’ll be happy to see his name in the starting lineup tonight.
By Logan23
June 26, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this
MLB GameDay 3D
New Toy
By ernesto
June 26, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this
And Philly gets another L to bring home as a souvenier.
5-0, A’s.
By RR
June 26, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this
philly lost 0-5 - final braves only 4 games back
By FloridaBrave
June 26, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this
I’m so high on our system and it’ll only get better with another year assuming we don’t trade any top guys and we get those two first rounders for Tex.
Efrim,
You’re pretty high on Flowers, eh? Everytime I discuss Flowers I have to bring up Cox’s comment about how the ball makes a different sound off his bat. His slugging a little down though- understandable in Myrtle Beach- but you can’t help to love his ball-strike recognition. I’m not sure he’s our 1B of the future yet, but I do think he’ll fill an important niche eventually as a huge power guy off the bench who also adds value due to his ability not only to play first, but catcher as well.
TennesseePaul,
I think he was crapping on our depth. I can see that when it comes to hitters maybe- especially at C and in the middle infield. But I think we have impressive depth when it comes to pitching and our top prospects are right up there with the best. Our system hasn’t been given that much credit in awhile yet it still has helped us pull off trades for Drew and Teixeira as well as create a core of homegrown talent in McCann, Escobar, Johnson, Francoeur, Reyes, Morton, Boyer, Acosta, etc.
By ernesto
June 26, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this
Broken link Logan, unless it just doesn’t like Safari
By MGL
June 26, 2008 6:00 PM | Link to this
Phillies lost 5-0. 4 back again.
By MGL
June 26, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this
Efrim, from the few rookie games I have seen at Dark Star, I don’t think that they adhere to any particular innings per game rules like the do in the higher leagues.
By N8
June 26, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this
Tomahawk Kris
Right now, my daily grind consists of sitting at my office waiting for the phone to ring. Makes for a LOT of time to blog. In about two weeks (going through January), I won’t be so fortunate.
Believe it or not, ranting, discussing and laughing on blog ARE what gets me through my daily grind.
It’s safe to say, that for about 6 weeks, I’ve enjoyed the blog more than the Braves games.
It’s been more entertaining.
“Question: What’s the best way to become a target for vitriol and hatred on the Braves MIB Blog?”
Nope. But calling somebody a dumbass, assuming they don’t get a joke (a lame one at that), and renaming your moniker to mock another blogger, will put a nice target on your back.
I simply made a reference to Mr.runonsentence that he must be “on something” to be that optimistic about this team, and that he should share in the wealth of hallucinogenics. Nothing more.
He put the target on his own back, and it had NOTHING to do with being positive.
By Wayne in Utah
June 26, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this
Braves Fans: A challenge for you.
You are the GM for the rest of the year, and through the off season. What 3-5 moves do you make (both now and during the off season) to make the Braves a better team?
You have to decide if you are going for it, or retooling for next year. Gotta get off the fence.
No crazy stuff like trading Prado and Thorman for Jason Bay, etc…
I will come up with my strategy while watching the NBA draft on ESPN.
Let’s say upfront that we want constructive input, and not a load of negative bs.
Not interested, fine. Leave it alone.
(how’s it shakin’ N8??)
By N8
June 26, 2008 6:44 PM | Link to this
BA
“After all, how can you win with the cleanup hitter under so much pressure that he only hits a measley thirty-five homers and drives in a miniscule 120 runs.”
EXCELLENT point when you consider how few games all those numbers come in.
Tex has 14 HR and 58 RBI in 79 games this year.
In the 12 games he’s hit HR in, he’s accumulated 28 of his RBI. In those games, the Braves have gone 7-5.
In the OTHER 67 games, Tex has O HR, and 29 RBI. In THOSE games, the Braves are 31-36.
So….yeah. So as it seems, it is hard to win with him.
By ncscoots
June 26, 2008 6:48 PM | Link to this
It’s safe to say, that for about 6 weeks, I’ve enjoyed the blog more than the Braves games. It’s been more entertaining.
To tell you the truth, old buddy, “entertaining” is not the word I would have picked. More like “root canal”.
Oops. Two words, my bad. DOB math on parade.
By N8
June 26, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this
Not bad Wayne.
I’m just happy the T-Wolves are actually back in the mix of getting to select in the first round again.
That contract for Joe Smith was never quite “worth” the six first round picks they had to give up.
It’s too bad, too. Without having to sacrifice those picks (how the hell Kevin McHale still has his job is a mystery), they might not have had to trad KG. Amazing what surrounding him with some talent can do (and NOT having Flip Saunders as his coach, of course).
By N8
June 26, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this
Wayne
I’ll get back to you later with my GM moves. It takes us d******* a while to construct a thought. Especially when you have to pull somebody’s broken off leg out of your azz.
By monty
June 26, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
The Phillies poor play as of late has brought ATl. back into the picture again, not that the Braves really did anything, like make a move. THat said, let’s see if BC can get his troops to believe in themselves and make a push. It seems rather obvious that the Wildcard will come out of the Central, barring a huge collapse, so we have to win the division. THE Baves should battle the Phillies down to the wire if we get some guys healthy, but what disturbs me and most everyone else is the inability to clutch-up in a close game. Too many losses in close games.Something has to give,soon!
By prattvillenolzfan
June 26, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this
With today being an off day, it seems like the Bonds story has sprung legs…..
To the people who say the Braves will NEVER sign a player like Bonds….
Don’t forget, if it wasn’t for the Pirates ownership, WE WOULD’VE HAD BONDS IN THE MID 90’S
Remember, Scheurholz/Ted Simmons (then Pirate GM) already had a deal in place, then the owners nixed the deal…………So don’t be sanctimonious and say that the Braves are above acquiring Bonds..
While I appreciate the class exhibited by Smoltz, Murphy et al throughout their careers, many Braves fans want another world series NOW
I’m not advocating selling our souls just to win a world series, and I am a strong believer that character counts. But remember that this is a a business, and the Bonds of today is not the same as the Bonds of yesterday…..With him not playing so far, and he being in a platoon w/Diaz, he should be healthy…To the people who say he’ll be on the DL alot, he won’t be playing that much…What do we have to lose…
By ncscoots
June 26, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this
Rephrasing N8:
In the 14 games Chipper’s hit HR in, he’s accumulated all but 18 of his RBI. In those games, the Braves have gone 10-4.
In the OTHER 57 games, Chipper has 0 HR, and 18 RBI. In THOSE games, the Braves are 27-30.
So….yeah. So as it seems, it is hard to win with him.
These kind of statistics seem to be specious to me. I would suggest that similar splits would be found in almost any slugger’s season. It certainly doesn’t make a case for or against Teixeira in any fashion.
nathan, I’ve just started reading your posts again, my friend, don’t make me regret that too soon, LOL.
By Da Mick
June 26, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this
Just wondering, on days the Braves don’t actually play do Jeff Bennett and McCann have do do chores on Bobby’s farm?
By justdoit
June 26, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this
According to jayson Stark - The Braves have shifted their focus from starting pitching to an impact bat in left field. Stark suggests Raul Ibanez, Jason Bay, and Xavier Nady would make sense. Matt Holliday would be too costly; Adam Dunn is not mentioned.
— any one of those guys would be awesome and with kotsay back would give the braves a great lineup ..dooittt
By Efrim
June 26, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this
Teheran isn’t pitching yet. Maybe he’ll come in later.
Florida Brave
I like Flowers a lot. His bat fits better at Catcher, but I’m sure it projects well at first too.
By prattvillenolzfan
June 26, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this
BA
The more I hear you post, the more I think you are 10 years old…..
Today you used the word Drats
Last week when your criticism of CC got WAY TO PERSONAL, I, along with others, called you out on it…
Your response Nanny Nanny Boo Boo
By BA
June 18, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this
Pratville, we will now refer to you as “Pratvillevagina”. Nanny nanny boo boo
IF ANYONE WANTS TO SEE WHAT I’M TALKING ABOUT, READ CC’S LAST WED. 6/18 BLOG
Grow up man…….
By N8
June 26, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this
BA
Here’s a better breakdown of your boy Tex.
In the 38 games he’s played in that the Braves have won, he’s batted .329 with 9 HR and 42 RBI.
So, YES, he’s contributed mightily to the wins it appears.
BUT….(you knew there was going to be a but, right?), in the 40 games they’ve lost that he’s played in, he’s batted .215 with 5 HR and 15 RBI.
Seriously. Only 15 frickin RBI in the 40 games they’ve lost? Yikes.
Chipper as well, only has 4 HR and 13 RBI in the 34 games he’s played in that the Braves have lost. HOWEVER, he has batted .301 and has an OBP of .394 in the losses as well. In those 34 games he’s walked 19 times (6 of them intentionally).
It appears as though somebody isn’t cleaning up very well in the cleanup spot, eh?
Francoeur you ask? He’s hit .289 with 5 HR and 29 RBI in the 38 victories he’s been a part of.
In the 41 losses, he’s hit .208 with 3 HR and 12 RBI.
McCann? In the 35 victories, he’s batted .364 with 9 HR and 29 RBI.
In the 39 losses? He’s batted .241 with 5 HR and 15 RBI.
So let me get this straight.
In the Braves 41 losses this year, the 3 guys responsible for the 4-6 spots in the order, have gone 98 for 445 (.220) with 15 HR and 42 RBI…..COMBINED!!!
It starts with the cleaup hitter and trickles down in a loss.
Somebody has to step up. Who’s it gonna be? Chipper has done his part, even in the losses.
By Wayne in Utah
June 26, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this
N8 I have some ointment for that azz problem of yours…..
prattvillenolzfan: going after Bonds 10-15 years ago is much different than going after him today. I think it would be too much of a slap in the face of “The Hammer” and certainly not worth the circus it would create.
By Yars
June 26, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this
monty….I can’t see the NL wildcard coming out of the central. Cubs will win Central, & teams like the Brewers & Cards will fade away eventually. NL West is pathetic. Wildcard definitely isn’t coming out of the west. I think the D backs will win the west. Wildcard coming out of the east.
By N8
June 26, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this
*ncscoots
“I would suggest that similar splits would be found in almost any slugger’s season.”
It does. In my previous post, I broke down Chipper, Tex, McCann and 643-E9 in the wins and losses.
But the point is, how many sluggers/cleanup hitters (especially ones making his money and is soon to be asking for more), have numbers like that with a guy that has an OBP of .485 hitting in the 3-hole ahead of him all year?
With the season Chipper has had so far, Tex has failed us….Period.
“nathan, I’ve just started reading your posts again, my friend, don’t make me regret that too soon, LOL.”
Sorry. I’ll try to contain my insanity just a bit. (watch out….BA doesn’t like the phrase “LOL”, he might question your sexuality).
By Wayne in Utah
June 26, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this
N8: Good points on the 4-6 hitters. Would one more strong bat solve the issue??
I don’t think Holliday is the answer. Would Bay/Nady/Ibanez/Winn be enough?
By FloridaBrave
June 26, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this
Efrim,
If Flowers was a true catcher I’d like him as much as you. But from everything I’ve read he’s moreso a 1B playing C out of necessity.
By justdoit
June 26, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this
please not winn - i like what we have in the system over winn
By flange1
June 26, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this
Wayne,
What a great idea! GM for a day!
Count me in!
Here is my shot.
Within the next 2 weeks:
trade helps ATL for 2008 and 2009 at 1B and LF
See if Hampton or Glavine can pitch this year. If yes, skip 3 if not then
Trade B. Jones for Greg Maddox (chance of this happening 40%)
Move Campy to the pen, have Campy, Bennett, Buddy as 3 long guys able to spot start to reduce innings on rookies and be multiple inning relief pitchers, use Acosta, Ohman, Boyer and Gonzo in 1 inning or less situations
Finish the season.
At he end of the season, you have young potential stars at every IF position except Chipper, Frenchy in RF, Kemp in LF with Schafer penciled in in CF FOR 2009
Sign Diaz and Kotsay for backup/PH for the OF and 1B
Resign Infante as backup IF
Trade Sammons + Lillibridge to Houston for Ty Wiggenton to back up at 2B. 3B and 1B
Next year bullpen = Gonzo, Soriano, Acosta, Ohman, Boyer, Moylan (at some point)
Rotation - Hudson, JJJ, JoJo, Morton, Campy/Hanson
Let the minors (Ridgeway, Stockman, etc) fill in the pen.
RESIGN CHIPPER, HUDSON to longer erms contracts
Sign Escobar + KJ to longer term contracts
The team is set for 3+ years….
SO how did I do?
By David O'Brien
June 26, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this
N8, what does BA making fun of the ridiculously bad attendance at the Marlins-Rays game have to do with the team’s records? Yes, both of them have better records than the Braves. The Rays are having a terrific season, and the Marlins are playing great, too. And yet … 13,165 for Wednesday’s game. While the Braves drew 34,829 for an Wednesday AFTERNOON game against the Brewers.
Spin that any way you want. The Florida teams are playing better than the Braves — the Rays playing FAR better — and yet they draw flies to a game between the teams. That’s all BA was pointing out.
That attendance is laughable. It’s not like he was making fun of the teams’ performance on the field. He was (rightfully) making fun of the Marlins’ attendance, which is ridiculously low, as it always is.
By Efrim
June 26, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this
Florida Brave
Interesting matchup for Jordan Schafer tonight, Aaron Poreda is the White Sox best pitching prospect and he is a tough lefty- 6’6” 240 lbs. Hopefully Jordan can start to hit lefties.
By N8
June 26, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this
Wayne in Utah
“Would one more strong bat solve the issue??”
It might. Misery loves company. In other words, our lineup just might bring down whoever jumps on board.
IMO, (I’ll get more detailed later on with my GM moves), we should stand pat with what we’ve got. If Tex, McCann and Jeff can’t step it up to carry us the rest of the way, what is another hitter gonna do come playoff time?
GOOD pitchers will just pitch around both Chipper and whoever the new addition would be.
If we’re gonna win in the playoffs, it’s gonna have to be with the current 4-6 hitters. So if those hitters can’t get us there, why bother?
“I don’t think Holliday is the answer.”
Holliday MIGHT be the answer, but at what cost? I’m not willing to sacrifice 2 or 3 (if not more) good prospects for him, considering his career home/road splits and where his home park is.
“Would Bay/Nady/Ibanez/Winn be enough?”
They might be enough to help “get there”, but again, in a short series against good teams with better than good pitching, our current heart of the order is gonna have to produce, right?
I’m not a big Winn fan. I like Xavier Nady, and he might be the cheapest (in terms of what we’d have to give up), but he’s not healthy either, so why not wait for Diaz and cross our fingers?
By David O'Brien
June 26, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this
Gorkys Hernandez has been selected to play in the All-Star Futures Game.
By MBPELICAN
June 26, 2008 8:30 PM | Link to this
Trade Diory Hernandez, Chuck James, and Brandon Jones for Jason Bay, hope he extends for a Chipper like contract.
By Braves WIll WIn
June 26, 2008 8:30 PM | Link to this
The time has come to shut the door on a rough first half. The Phillies are letting Atlanta know that they are not worthy. What will cost the Phillies late in the season will be their strikouts and lack of pitching. For the Braves carma of the first half will pay off in luck and lots of it. You see fans the Braves took it bentover in the first half. Look out Stark KRUCK and Keith Law the Braves are about to make ESPN regonize what they have been missing. Francine will hit, Tex will shut everyone up about trading and our coveted prospect that we trade for a LF will be on a buss to another town.
Face it hatters its time to be Mets fans because the Braves are about to roll.
By N8
June 26, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this
DOB
OK. Sorry.
By JC FROM UT
June 26, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this
WAYNE: Here is my plan, 1. Request a meeting with Tex and Boras and make one last attempt to re-sign him. 2/3. If Tex refuses to sign know put him on the market. first call would be to the Dodgers along with their choice of either Prado or L’bridge for James Loney and Chad Billingsly. 3/2. If Tex re-signs offer L’bridge and B. Jones to Seattle for Raul Ibanez. 4. DFA Corky and bring up Sammons 5. Ask BC to change a litte such as more small ball (not just stealing bases but more hit and run more challenging the opposing outfielders arms) and put KJ in the 5 hole regardless of who is pitching and give JF 3-4 days off. 6. Exchange Blanco and Anderson to see if the change will ignite one or the other.
By N8
June 26, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this
DOB
Getting back to the Marlins/Rays attendance.
You tell me what is more pathetic and laughable, the fact that two cities that literally have never supported their teams (other than the Marlins fans in 1993, 1997 and LATE 2003), can’t convince their fans that they’re for real.
Or…
An empty upper deck during the first round of the playoffs for the Braves in their last few series.
Braves fans in Atlanta aren’t much better than the Marlins fans are. Just as fair-weathered.
Or do you disagree?
By FloridaBrave
June 26, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this
Too early to play GM. I will play eventually- who here doesn’t?- but we’re still a couple weeks away from making a decision as to buy or sell.
flange1,
I don’t think getting Loney AND Kemp is realistic for Tex. But the Angels apparently aren’t going to be big buyers, the Red Sox are getting healthy, and the Yanks refuse to trade their young pitching so the Dodgers may be the team with the most to offer. I think a James Loney + a young arm(Elbert? Meloan? McDonald?)
If we trade Tex, I don’t we buy at the same time. We’ll probably trade Tex and Ohman and that’s it. Ohman would be a hot commodity.
On the other hand, Wigginton is a guy not discussed much and he fits perfectly what we need…just don’t think Lillibridge and Sammons would get him.
Not bad overall.
By Efrim
June 26, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this
MBPelican
Trade Diory Hernandez, Chuck James, and Brandon Jones for Jason Bay, hope he extends for a Chipper like contract.
Maybe they will throw in Nate McLouth too. I mean, why wouldn’t they? Chuckie J, Brandon Jones and Diory Hernandez?!?!?! What’s Neal Huntington waiting for????
By FloridaBrave
June 26, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this
Efrim,
Good call. Looks like Schafer got a bases-loaded walk in his first AB.
Chris Vines looks like an under-the-radar prospect in Myrtle Beach. It seems the Pelicans are chalk full of those with Vines, Reynoso, Cofield, Diamond, Lyman, and Butts. They’re all putting up tremendous stats, although Cofield’s peripherals looks shaky at best.
By N8
June 26, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this
One question for all the optimists, that claim that the “real Phillies” are showing up, and that they are “not worthy”, and that now it’s our time….
Why are y’all so convinced that 3 weeks of June (in which the Phillies are 11-12), means they’re coming back to earth, when that is how the Braves have been playing for about 400+ games?
When the Phillies have a bad month, it’s the “real deal”. When the Braves play like that for almost 3 years, it’s just a slump that they’re gonna miraculously pop out of all of the sudden.
Sorry. Didn’t know it worked that way. Now I’m more educated.
GO BRAVES!
FYI: The combined record of the NL (L-East) teams in the month of June is: 48-68
Yup. You’re right Yars, it’s the NL Central teams that are gonna “fade”. That wild card is certainly gonna come from a group of 5 teams that have zero interest in winning anything.
St. Louis is 12-10 in June. Not great but, not below .500 either. The Brewers? Yeah. They’re 15-7 in June.
Sorry dude. They’re not going anywhere soon.
By flange1
June 26, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this
FLBrave,
Thanks! I agree that Kemp and Looney is too much for Tex, that’s why I threw in Prado and Chuck. We might have to tweak players to come up with the right amount there.
Only problem is that the Dodgers always talk about trading their prospects, but rarely if ever do!!!!
By Efrim
June 26, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this
Florida Brave
I’d want Jordan Walden, Nick Adenhart and Casey Kotchman for Tex. Yes, that is asking a lot. I must agree though, if the Braves are going to deal Tex, they should trade Ohman as well. They could definetly get a lot for the guy.
By flange1
June 26, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this
Efrim,
Your 8:52 made me spit beer all over my computer!!
Priceless!!!
By MBPELICAN
June 26, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
maybe Andrew Mccutchen too!!! douch e
By Doc Holliday (Overlord)
June 26, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this
flange1 you know exactly what IM saying. They love taking risks and they are paying for their sin. They just dont want to spend a penny more. And sadly, if they dont, I dont see any light at the end of the tunnel.
Projected SP for this season:
Hudson——-OK
Smoltz——- 40+
Glavine—— 40+
JJJ———— Rookie
James——— Health problems
Depth:
Carlyle—— inconsistent
Hampton—— DL forever
JoJo———- Developing rookie.
Its been a miracle we have stayed within range. Thanks to JJJ, Murton and Campillo.
Is there any surprise that Chipper, kotsay and smoltz have been injuried for long periods of time?
Is there a surprise we didnt get good result for our 8M investment on Glavine?
Is there any surprise on how bad is JF looking at the plate?
Norton, he is hitting what was expected of him.
What about corky? any surprise there?
Better stop having a team that 75% of their players are either in their 40s, or with less than 5 years of experience or with great chances to hit DL.
Chipper, Glavine, Smoltz, Soriano, Gonzalez, Hampton, Blanco, BJ, JF, KJ, McCann, Yunel, Kotsay, Anderson, Diaz, Prado, Corky, JoJo, JJJ, Campillo, Bennett, Boyer, Ring, Morton, Gotay, James, Infante, Acosta, Gonzalez, Carlyle, TEX, Ridgway, Stockman, Ohman, Moylan.
Thats 30 players, 30.
What do they all have in common?
5 or less full years of MLB experience, or
Far above average chance to hit DL or get injuries during year repeatedly, or
In their 40s.
Only players that dont fit in that list:
Tim Hudson.
Gregg Norton.
flange1, to me, thats not the way to built a championship caliber team. You need more good veterans in their low 30s.
By flange1
June 26, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this
Efrim,
My second choice on the TEX trade was with the Angels for just about what you asked for but I would have included Ohman.
They need a second lefty in the pen.
They are also going to get K. Escobar back soon so they night be up to trade a starter with Kotchman.
Any way the word on the street is that the Angels are standing pat…
By FloridaBrave
June 26, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this
flange1,
I’m not sure Prado and James help all that much. They’d probably want a top prospect in that type of deal as well if not more. There’s not much Kemp and Loney can’t get a team.
Efrim,
That is a lot, if the Angels wanted Tex though they have the fire power to make us want to pull the rigger. But recent articles say they’re fine with how they are. But I really think a Beltre trade makes a TON of sense for them. Beltre(and the Mariners eat a chunk of his salary)for Morales and Willits? I think Beltre would have a resurgence in Los Angeles- the area has a big Latin American population so he and his family would be comfortable living there and he’d get better pitches to hit in that lineup.
By David O'Brien
June 26, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this
N8, dude, I’m not hear to argue with you on this. We all know you absolutely live to find every possible negative point you can about the Braves, and that’s fine. Every crowd needs one.
I’m just merely pointing out that BA was alluding to nothing more than lousy attendance for the Marlins-Rays intrastate “rivalry,” as it were, with his tree-falls-in-the-forest refence.
Spin this any way you want, I’m just providing numbers.
June 25, 2008: Brewers vs. Braves, 34,829 for an afternoon game.
June 25, 2008: Rays vs. Marlins, 13,165 for a game between two second-place teams playing good baseball.
And by the way, you should check attendance totals for Marlins first-round home playoff games in 1997. Actually, let me do it for you, since I covered that ‘97 Marlins team.
In 1997, the Marlins drew 42,167 for division series Game 1 vs. San Francisco at 70,000-plus Pro Player Stadium, and 41,283 for Game 2 (those were the only two home games in the first round, since they finished the sweep at SF).
They opened upper deck seating as needed at Pro Player for the playoffs, according to ticket demand, and left tarps on the upper deck when they didn’t sell tickets for that first round.
(They drew more than 70,000 for the World Series home games against Cleveland, sold out the entire stadium.)
By the way, the Marlins played Houston in the division series in ‘97, and in Games 1 and 2 in Atlanta they had crowds of 46,467 and 49,200 (the only Braves home games in that series, since they finished the sweep at Houston).
By Braves WIll WIn
June 26, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this
The Braves are not going to trade Tex, so stop thinking about it. Wren is not going to give-up trying to resign him in July he will take his chances and hear draft picks when he leaves.
Our pitching is to good and our offense will finally get it going and this team will be fine.
If you look around the league everyone besides the Cubs, Red Sox and Angels are dominating the regular season.
i mean the braves could be in first by the end of July. Things are strange and teams make runs. just ask Arizona. Everyone was touting them to be an awsome team. Now the are fighting to stay in first in a weak division.
The braves will make it so stop with all of this nonsense of looking toward the future. We have one of the youngest teams anyway.
By flange1
June 26, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this
Hey Doc,
I won’t argue with you that you need more players in their primes, but that cost $$$.
We have a limited budget.
Working with a limited budget, I think Wren did as good a job as he could have.
Look at my trade suggestion above. The thought there is to get more young studs and let them mature together (like the Braves did in Championship seasons gone by)
WIth that kind of a team, you can spend more on the BP and the bench.
By ernesto
June 26, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this
Brandon Jones, Thor, Chuckie and Hernandez for Cain. Send Wren out to SF with a bottle of Tequila, set up a meeting with Sabean, and let’s get this thing done.
Our old pal Kevin Millwood’s getting lit up tonight.
By David O'Brien
June 26, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this
Dude, serious question: Why do you follow this team? By that I mean, it just doesn’t seem like you get enjoyment out of anything they do, in the conventional sense of a “fan,” so what’s the point?
(and it should be obvious who I’m asking)
By Efrim
June 26, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this
MBPelican
No need for name calling man. Put yourself in the Pirates shoes. If you were going to trade Jason Bay, wouldn’t you want some more sure things? I mean, personally, I’d ask for Jason Heyward to start talks. Why not? Obviously the Braves would say no, but you need to start there. I really think you’ll have to give up Hanson to get Bay…that is why I don’t think the Braves will get Bay.
By David O'Brien
June 26, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this
And N8, understand I’m not attacking. You certainly have the right to pick apart, nitpick, second-guess, lament, etc., all you want, and to share all that with us here.
I’m honestly just curious as to why you wouldn’t just follow another team, or just follow the sport on a general basis, at least until there’s a change in management that suits you, a change in philosophy or whatever. Because it just seems so redundant and time-consuming to bang your head against the wall complaining to what end?
By David O'Brien
June 26, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
Just saw that Tampa Bay’s Matt Garza threw a one-hitter with 10 strikeouts against the Marlins tonight.
Attendance, by the way, spiked to 17,107 for that Thursday night series finale.
By Efrim
June 26, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
Flange1
My preference for any deals would be to talk with Boston. But I am not sure they have a real need for Tex. I think they will go out and trade for Sabathia anyways. Milwaukee is a darkhorse for Sabathia as well.
By Randy S
June 26, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this
Nit-picking with Gorkys’ outstanding numbers - only 8 steal attempts in 40 games? Has he had a bad hammy or something? He certainly has been getting on base enough to run a little more than that. But great news for him. Hope he enjoys the scene up there.
By ernesto
June 26, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this
DOB, it’s simple, N8 is Asi9
Bah-dum-dum.
By FloridaBrave
June 26, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this
Agreed, Efrim, we ran through trade proposal the other day. He’s young, controllable, and has shown the ability to be a 30 HR 100 RBI middle of the lineup hitter. You have to give value to get value. I believe Hanson, Jones, and Hicks will be closer to what it takes. Not saying I’d do that but Bay’s a darn good player.
By N8
June 26, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this
DOB
“N8, dude, I’m not hear to argue with you on this.”
I know you’re not. It’s between BA and myself. Not much “blog-respect” there between her and I.
And I certainly recall the playoffs being “fan-less” in Florida, in 97 and 03.
Tampa and Miami have NO BUSINESS having MLB teams in their cities, IMO. People can blame the fire-sales in 98 and 04, but it wouldn’t matter.
Who the hell wants to sit in a stadium and watch a baseball game when you’ve got the beaches of south Florida a stone’s throw away?
I would. But that’s just me.
As for Tampa? MLB had ZERO business giving them a team with that horrific excuse of a stadium that they call home. Again, a new stadium ain’t gonna matter.
As for the Braves attendance in 97 playoffs? Dude, that’s 2 years removed from winning the whole thing. One year removed from being humbled by the Yankees and was to be our redemption year. In other words, there was still “hope”, that a WS victory MIGHT happen.
What was the attendance in the 2005 playoffs at Turner Field? I’ll return the favor and check for you. LOL!
According to baseball-reference.com, there was 40,590 in attendance for Game 1 of the NLDS against Houston (Braves lost 3-1).
Game 1 of the 2004 NLDS (also against Houston), there was 41,464 people there.
For Game 1 of the 2003 NLDS against the Cubs, there was 52,043 in attendance.
Secondly, I’m not sure that those are actual attendance numbers, or tickets sold (not sure how that works), but I remember both Game 1’s against the Astros in 04 and 05 being EMPTY at the time of the 1st pitch.
It’s really not that big of a deal.
By MBPELICAN
June 26, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this
Efrim,
i just threw that out there, maybe add an “Evarts” type, i think we could pull it off without having to part with Heyward or Hanson.
By Efrim
June 26, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this
So the Blue Jays just lit up Volquez tonight…
Why does every team’s offense get hot right before facing the Braves? Watch the Phillies bats come alive this weekend….
By FloridaBrave
June 26, 2008 10:05 PM | Link to this
I’d give the edge to the Brewers for Sabthia than Red Sox. Not because the Brewers have more firepower to get him- no one has more firepower for trades than Boston- but the Brewers need him more. Boston’s rotation lacks experience, sure, but with their lineup and pen Beckett, Dice-K, and Lester will do come playoff time. Brewers need Sabathia to have fend off the Cardinals, Marlins, whoever in the wildcard and they have the guys in AA to get a deal done. Although I wouldn’t trade LaPorta since he’ll be Fielder’s replacement once they trade him in the off-season.
By David O'Brien
June 26, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this
N8, fair enough on the attendance. You’re right — way too many empty seats at Braves games not involving Cubs.
In their defense, a lot of those are day games for the series opener, and if you’re a fan it’s hard buying tickets and getting off work for a day game when the starting time’s announced literally just two days beforehand.
And say what you will, but when you’re in the postseason 14 straight times, and you lose a lot in the first or second round, well, those first-round games aren’t the easy sell they should be for teams that don’t go so often.
But again, you’re right — too many empty seats for Braves home games in most first rounds not involving Cubs.
By N8
June 26, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this
DOB
Good questions. But really. If I were to state that I’m “boycotting” the team until Cox is gone, or until things “turn around”, isn’t that being fair weathered?
I’ve never done anything but speak on how the team is playing at that moment. Eevn regarding discussions amongst friends and other baseball fans before I began blogging.
Like I said earlier. I actually enjoy all of the back and forth on the blog. I enjoy people saying I’m nuts. I enjoy others agreeing with me.
You’ve got to understand. I’ve got one buddy that lives in my neck of the woods that is a Braves fan. He chose NOT to renew his Extra Innings package this year. HE said that he wasn’t investing another second until Cox was gone. I envy him for being able to do so.
I watch the games to watch GOOD BASEBALL. Ultimately, the wins and losses aren’t that big of a deal, as long as the team plays good ball. Even you have to admit that other than the Angels series, Braves fans haven’t even seen good baseball in a while.
I know you’re not attacking me. Not your stile.
As for following the sport “on a general basis”, believe me I do. Totally LOVE the Extra Innings package.
In the past the only other option I had for baseball on TV, was Twins games and whatever Yankees or Red Sox series that the ESPN decided to show.
Ultimately though, you know what? It’s having Extra Innings that has opened my eyes even MORE as to why Cox needs to go, IMO. I watch teams that in my eyes have CONSIDERABLY LESS talent than the past 2+ years of Braves teams, yet they do things to win and scratch out runs.
It’s VERY interesting to watch other teams, and the way they are managed.
Being a fan of the Chiefs, I listen to KC radio on a daily basis, and have sort of been following the Royals a little bit. That team is actually fun to watch. There is hustle. There is effort, and MUCH less over all talent, IMO.
I listen to all of Trey Hillman’s press conferences and weekly morning radio show, and you can see and feel that that team is up and coming.
I’ve got ZERO interest in changing teams. I simply want my team to be changed.
“Attendance, by the way, spiked to 17,107 for that Thursday night series finale.”
Smart azz. Well done.
By Wayne in Utah
June 26, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this
My GM venture:
First, we never give up until we are mathematically eliminated. So, no trading of Tex for me. He has to come through, as I think Frenchy will eventually also.
Move #1 Trade for Winn (probably a mid level prospect will do, cause we will be picking up a lot of salary).
I believe Winn could be the leadoff hitter we need (not perfect, but better than what we have). This puts Escobar in the 2 hole, with KJ allowed to hit lower in the order. Winn plays CF until/if Kotsay returns. Getting KJ’s bat in the 6/7 position is a lot like getting Nady or Bay.
Move #2 Go out and get a backup catcher who can hit…..I am open on who it could be. Don’t care, so long as he can hit between 200 and 250.
Move #3 If Tex hits the rest of the year, sign him. Give him what he wants, but sign him.
Move #4 Give guys like Lillibridge and Schafer a shot later in the year, especially if we get eliminated.
Move #5 Get a backup for Chipper with some stick. Somebody like Chad Tracy or maybe Wiggington.
Move #6 Do not trade away any of our top prospects for moves 1, 2 or 5.
PS: No way does the Dodgers offer Kemp AND Loney for Tex. They don’t need our retreads as throw-ins either. If they would trade Loney straigt up for Tex, I would do that at the deadline, if we weren’t getting healthier, BUT no way do I think Frank Wren makes that deal. The Braves just don’t give up early.
By David O'Brien
June 26, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this
Understood.
By N8
June 26, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this
DOB
“Because it just seems so redundant and time-consuming to bang your head against the wall complaining to what end?”
Just bored dude. Off days are tough. Slow at work right now. Wife and kids out of town until Monday, and it’s storming out right now (not gonna go ride bike in the lightning).
If you notice, MOST of my griping is in retaliation or in conversation with people that disagree with me.
When done politely and without name calling, I rather enjoy it. Nothin’ like a good debate, IMO.
Since I don’t see much point in arguing with you or others about music, I choose the other topic frequently discussed on this blog….the Braves.
For what it’s worth, I’ll be busy most of tomorrow and Saturday and sleeping most of Sunday (out of town gig on Saturday), so the blog will get a “rest”.
Unfortunately for all, I’ve got nothing to do the rest of tonight. LOL!
By Doc Holliday (Overlord)
June 26, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this
Sorry about my count of players…… it aint 30 playes……but 35…..
Braves have played 35 players this year that either have 5 or less years of experience, or high chances to hit DL or over 40 YO.
flange1 I also think Wren has done a great job keeping in mind what I mentioned above and on my post an hour ago. But if they dont do what you just mentioned (get some players in their prime, Id say 2 or 3, if not more), they are not going anywhere.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 26, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this
YO N8
I’m surprised that your knowledge doesn’t extend to the ‘70’s show. If it did you would have “taught” Cody that the comment is “my FOOT in your A$$” — not leg. And there was no “breaking” either.
Just my 2 cents.
By JimD
June 26, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this
I want to go back and revisit Nate’s little stat about batting averages in games won vs games lost. Nate, you win the award for Firmest Grasp On the Obvious.
Why do you think most teams lose a game? It is usually because they don’t score enough. They don’t score because they don’t hit. And when they don’t hit the averages show it! WOW, you are a frickin’ Einstein, Nate!
But you know what, you could run those same numbers on Utley, Berkman, Pujols, Holliday and I would guess you would find a similar outcome. Thanks for pointing out something so deep, so ethereal that all us and idiots couldn’t figure that one out.
Oh, and I agree with DOB … why is it you follow the Braves? I have a hunch … it is because everything else in your life is perfect and you need something to balance it out, so you picked the Braves to pick apart and have at least one thing in your life that wasn’t perfect. Am I right?
By keylargo
June 26, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this
The question first arose years ago when fans of other teams ripped the Braves for not selling out the playoffs. It was always a little hollow to me and sounded a lot like petty jealousy.
Now we have Braves fans ripping the Marlins and Rays for not having very good attendance. Why? What is the reasoning behind this? Is this the only thing you can find to criticize them for? They must have pretty good organizations if this is what you chooose to rip them for.
I can’t speak for the Rays, but the Marlins are unique. The over/under was 68 for wins before the season started. They have a $23 Million payroll and play good, competitve ball despite having three starting pitchers out for the year.
But their stadium is a football stadium. The first time I went to a game I was sitting 10 rows up behind first base and if I sat strait and looked strait ahead I had a beautiful view of right center field. Plus it is way out in the western part of the county on the line between Broward and Dade County. Not close to anything.
The Braves have more advantages than all but a few cities. New stadium, top 10 in payroll, great minor league system, loyal fan base. I guess I just wish the Braves could get their house in order before we feel so superior that we can criticize other for things we do too.
By Bigboi
June 26, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
Frank please get Bonds in here.
By Efrim
June 26, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
Florida Brave
I think the Brewers will try to make that deal without having to give up Gamel or LaPorta. They have Escobar at SS and Salome at C to make a deal. Too bad they will have to deal either Gamel or Laporta to get Sabathia. I think they will do it and take the draft picks for him and Sheets at the end of the year. I agree on Fielder. I think they deal him this year. Something to think about for the Braves, but that guy needs to go to the AL eventually. He just has too.
By N8
June 26, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this
DOB
Totally agree with you, that with the 14 straight playoff appearances, that tickets were a hard sell.
Since you see that, and are willing to admit that THAT is a big issue, I find it hard to believe that you can’t see some of the frustration (as a Braves fan), in said playoff disappointments, and the subsequent seasons since the “run” ended, that have been extremely frustrating to watch and get behind.
You know as well as anybody, that I’m a sucker for the unknown of an upcoming season.
I thought that this team had the right tools to win it all (barring serious injury), and stood by the trade of Kotsay and most of Wren’s moves.
I’ve ALSO stood by Roger McDowell and the job he’s done.
I refuse to throw Wren under the bus for the moves he made (or didn’t make) last off-season.
That being said, everybody talks about “track record” and history and what not when keeping managers and position coaches in place.
Why not go with the most RECENT track record?
TP has failed to produce a lineup of hitters that are solid in crunch time. The hitters either don’t listen to him, and (or) are incapable of taking his tips and doing anything about it.
I’ve been as hard on Jeff as ANYBODY in recent weeks, and STILL think that he deserves more slack than Tex is getting. However, ultimately my anger with Jeff, is that moves were made or not made with the thought that he would “take the next step”.
Yet what REALLY should come as no shock is that until Cox and TP insist that he change his approach, that next step is NEVER gonna come.
So it’s time to come to grips with one of two things. Either Jeff isn’t as good as we all thought, or Bobby and TP are not the RIGHT coaches/manager for him to bring out his best.
I realize that by me b!tching and gaining no new results (in terms of what goes on with the Braves), is just as insane as Bobby expecting this lineup and Jeff to change until change is forced upon them.
Can we live with THAT assessment? That Bobby hasn’t lost his ability to coach, but Jeff may ultimately need a change of scenery before his overall play improves.
As for Tex. For today, I’m done worrying about him. Either he’s gonna carry this team on his back, or he won’t. Either way he’s NOT gonna be a Brave in 2009, so why bother?
By lexbrave
June 26, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this
haven’t noticed it mentioned here, but if the braves can pick up one more game on the phils in the upcomming bluejays series, they will be only 3 games out when the aformentioned phils roll into town.
why can’t we focus on that positive? i mean seriously..they are down to 1/4th of their opening day rotation, injuries to even the backups for guys who were injured and they still could go into the allstar break in 1st place.
tremendous given the odds if you ask me.
By TennesseePaul
June 26, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this
If I were to state that I’m “boycotting” the team until Cox is gone, or until things “turn around”, isn’t that being fair weathered?
No no no… knock yourself out. Take a break. Come back when the team is going to the playoffs. No one here will hold it against you…
By N8
June 26, 2008 10:49 PM | Link to this
Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
I watched the first season of That 70’s Show, and liked it. But it didn’t stick with me.
My mom LOVES that show and has all the seasons on DVD. I was gonna borrow them all during the writers strike and watch them all. But didn’t have time.
Too much blogging, I guess, huh?
I do remember the poor attempt by FOX in making That 80’s Show.
If they were smart, they would have done a few seasons of That 70’s Show, and then “rolled” it into the 80’s with the same characters, and kept it going.
But, what the hell do I know about writing for a TV show?
Keylargo
Nice post. Well stated.
By Wonderdog
June 26, 2008 10:50 PM | Link to this
Braves should sign Shawn Chacon. Maybe he can slap some sense into Bobby Cox.
By N8
June 26, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this
NICE.
I don’t know much about about NCAA basketball. But I know enough from being on the blog and listening to KC Sports talk radio, that Mario Chalmers is a very nice 2nd round pick for my Wolves.
This draft is damn near as lame as the MLB draft was on ESPN. WAY too much Stu Scott for me.
By Doc Holliday
June 26, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
flange1 about your post, I wouldnt be talking about 2009 just yet. There is a lot of stuff to talk about 2008.
James Looney is not going anywhere. That guy is a great young player, same goes for Kemp.
I dont think anybody is take C. James this year. Everybody knows he has been a joke in his last 6 months playing on MLB.
I thinks braves will end up with an average 1B for next year. Only hope is that TEX learns to appreciate how well he has been receive by fans here, even if while struggling, that is priceless, lets see how smart he really is.
By chrisklob
June 26, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
N8 So it’s time to come to grips with one of two things. Either Jeff isn’t as good as we all thought, or Bobby and TP are not the RIGHT coaches/manager for him to bring out his best.
It might not be that cut and dry. He may be hurt (that’s my suspicion — he doesn’t look comfortable running) or he may have a vision issue. He’s been hit in the face with baseballs twice now and he was just fitted with a contact lens for one eye recently. Or there could be issues in his personal life that we don’t know about that is affecting his ability to concentrate.
By lexbrave
June 26, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
i also saw no mention of more encouraging news.. hampton allowed only 3 hits, 2 k’s and no runs in 2.2 innings in his 2nd successful rehab start yesterday.
since no one is relying on him to ever pitch again for the major league team he could be a big help for the 2nd half of the season IF he continues to pitch pain free.
By Wonderdog
June 26, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this
Hampton will break your heart.
By David O'Brien
June 26, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this
D. Arthur’s a lottery pick if not for mysterious health concerns that cropped up in last month (I had heard it was a shoulder problem that was raising red flags, but ESPN was reporting tonight that it was a kidney issue; we’ll see. Regardless, I bet he was a steal at No. 27.)
Chalmers should’ve stayed, but hey, his dad was supposedly telling him he was ready, etc.
Rush will have a solid NBA career because he’s 6-5, an excellent jump shooter who can get his shot off against big guards, plus a good slasher, and he plays stellar D.
Ex-Jayhawker J.R. Giddens also picked at end of first round.
By N8
June 26, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
chrisklob
Well stated. That would be a 3rd thing to add to the mix.
I’m still not sure if Bobby and TP are the right combination for Jeff.
That doesn’t mean that they aren’t right for other guys.
Chipper seems to have done just fine with them.
Oh. Wait. Doesn’t Chipper go to his dad when he’s in a slump?
How about Larry Sr. for hitting coach?
lexbrave
Please don’t jinx Mr. Hampton by stating he might help out at any point.
I’m not very superstitious, but I’m thoroughly convinced that Hampton won’t help, until we don’t actually need him.
That being said, of course he’ll help if he’s healthy. I almost spit pop all over my monitor when I typed that. Seems so silly to type healthy and Hampton in the same sentence.
By N8
June 26, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this
TennesseePaul
“No no no… knock yourself out. Take a break. Come back when the team is going to the playoffs. No one here will hold it against you…”
Hey. Don’t think I can’t sense “reverse psychology” when I see it. If you want me to stay, all you had to do was ask.
By chrisklob
June 26, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this
N8, I saw/heard an interview that Chipper gave not too long ago (I think it might have been on Jim Rome’s radio show but I’m not certain). Anyway, he was asked about his swing and Chipper gave ALL the credit to his father. He never mentioned TP’s name, which I found telling.
By the way, I wasn’t disagreeing with you, just pointing out that there were other scenarios to consider. Truth is, no one outside of the clubhouse knows the absolute truth about what Frenchy’s problem might be and we’ll probably never know.
By Doc Holliday
June 26, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this
From phillies blog:
# Griffin Says: June 26th, 2008 at 5:08 pm
yeah, this offense is putrid right now. They haven’t scored more than 4 runs since the first Red Sox game, right? That’s 8 games in a row. Not good.
Looks like things are not going so well in philly.
By Texas Brave
June 26, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this
I believe Bobby deserves some credit for holding this team together during this incredible season of injuries. I am sure some of us could have predicted that there would be some injuries along the way, but this many? If we knew at the beginning of the season about the number of injuries we have had would would believe that we would be only 4 games back?
On the flip side of the coin he has made many questionable in game calls during the season, particularly in regards to the bullpen. I have been a Brave fan since the beginning of the Murphy era. Got to see most of the televised games on TBS. In all those years I do not remember Bobby making as many questionable calls has he has in recent years.
I believe it has to do with a couple of things. One he still manages by the old playbook instead of changing with the times. What has worked in the past doesn’t necessary work in today’s game. Second, he no longer has the same coaches that he has had for so many years during the string of playoff years. I am sure he leaned a lot on Leo, Dews, Beach, Gonzalez among others. With all the new coaches I wonder if Bobby has the confidence in them for advice as he did his close nit group of friends.
Change is needed. It may not need to be coaching but perhaps philosophy and trust.
By Wonderdog
June 26, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this
There once was a fellow named N8
Who’s hobby was to rant and B-R8
What makes him so irritable?
Maybe a lack of vegetable
Darn, he could’a had a V8!
By Shamus Thacker
June 26, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this
I wish Chipper hadd’a witch-slapped Jim Rome. I can’t stand the guy. Jim Everett screwed his face into the floor once. He He
I’ll bet on this off night, ole Bobby is sporting a lamp shade and singing Center Field, with a gaggle of morally-challenged beer joint nymphs. I know I would be…
By Chop Chop
June 26, 2008 11:52 PM | Link to this
JimD,
Your 10:29 post was mostly spot on.
N8, it don’t exactly take no rocket science to figure out that teams generally lose when their players don’t play well.
I mean, ol’ Chipper’s a sorry .255/.345/.432 career hitter in losses. Why can’t he just be the .347/.446/.629 front-runnin’ career hitter that he is in wins?
Tex is a woeful .243/.320/.422 career hitter in his team’s losses. He’s a .329/.421/.649 hitter when he actually decides to get off his sorry a* and show up to play some ball.
McCann? Don’t even get me started about that sorry f***. He’s a mere .256/.314/.428 hitter in his career when his team loses a game. He’s a terrible drag on this franchise. However, he is a .330/.388/.562 guy when he bothers to try and help his team get a W.
Oh, and last but certainly not least, Francoeur. This lousy bum never tries when the Braves lose.
Look at this crap: .237/.279/.377 career hitter in losses.
He may be a .309/.350/.509 hitter in the wins, but he’s obviously quitting in the other ones.
This is a big conspiracy.
By Shamus Thacker
June 26, 2008 11:52 PM | Link to this
Good points Texas Brave.
By Texas Brave
June 26, 2008 11:55 PM | Link to this
You guys can take this with a grain of salt since I have only seen a handful of games, but it seems to me that Frenchy’s problems are more mechanical than anything else. Of course I can’t speak about his injured leg and I don’t know how much it is effecting him now, but he has had the same mechanical flaws since the beginning of the year before his injury.
These flaws are easy adjustments and it amazes me that he has not tried to make any serious adjustments. I am sure TP and others have said something to him to help correct said flaws, but the advice seems to have gone in one ear and out the other.
What did Chipper say; “lose an Andruw, gain an Andruw”.
Andruw had the same I am not going to listen to anyone, keep playing hurt attitude no matter how much it was hurting the team.
By N8
June 26, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this
chrisklob
“By the way, I wasn’t disagreeing with you, just pointing out that there were other scenarios to consider.”
Dude. Feel free to disagree with me. Everybody else does. LOL!
Seriously though, I know you weren’t. As I stated in the last post, you had and excellent point. A real possibility in reality.
As for Chipper and his dad, I recently read that McCann does the same thing.
Not sure that either of them shy away from TP. TP knew how to hit. But sometimes it’s harder to teach, than it was to just do.
That being said, I have to question the fact that the two best “pure hitters” on the team go to their dads for advice.
I seriously would consider hiring Chipper’s dad as hitting coach, or at least give the guy a job in the minor leagues. He seemed to do a good job with Chipper.
By chrisklob
June 26, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this
Shamus, I remember the incident that Rome had with Everett too. I hated Rome for a long time for that. Total bush league. That was a long time ago so when I found him on the radio recently I decided to listen for a bit. I can’t stand to listen to Colon “Shrutebag” Cowterd on ESPN radio any more and I don’t much care for the Mike Tirico show either so if I want to listen to sports talk radio, he’s my only other choice. I don’t love the show, but find it more tolerable than the options. Plus, he talks more baseball than the other guys and has interviews with baseball players on a pretty frequent basis.
By the way, Rome just went back on Atlanta radio on Monday. I don’t know the station but his show runs form noon to 3pm and shouldn’t be too hard to find.
By Shamus Thacker
June 27, 2008 12:05 AM | Link to this
I don’t see how anyone can question McCann’s effort, game in and game out. Unless this anyone is a puuuuuurrre IDIOT.
By chrisklob
June 27, 2008 12:11 AM | Link to this
N8,
Dude. Feel free to disagree with me. Everybody else does. LOL!
N8, I’ve called you out when I thought you were wrong in the past. Sometimes, including tonight, I think the mob seems to pile on you. Not saying that you were right or they were right, just making an observation. I’ve no problem calling someone out but I don’t do it just for the sake of doing it!
That being said, I have to question the fact that the two best “pure hitters” on the team go to their dads for advice.
I find this point interesting also. Granted, these two men have been watching their sons play baseball for years and they SHOULD know their swings quite well. However, neither of them are mlb-level hitting coaches. Terry Pendleton is. He should be able to figure out what’s going on with their swings as well as the two fathers should. Or so it seems to me.
By Chop Chop
June 27, 2008 12:11 AM | Link to this
Some more win/loss career stats:
John Smoltz - 1.76 career ERA in wins/6.03 career ERA in losses.
Greg Maddux - 1.81 career ERA in wins/5.67 career ERA in losses.
Tom Glavine - 1.95 career ERA in wins/6.46 career ERA in losses.
Alright. That’s enough.
N8, over time, players are going to play well when their teams win and poorly when their teams lose. There’s no need to descend into this kind of inane madness. You’re better than that.
By BA
June 27, 2008 12:16 AM | Link to this
Wow, I have to leave for work in the middle of my, er, discussion with n8 the hate, and who steps in to clarify my “joke”? The Crusading Everyman?! How cool is that! Thanks DOB, took the words right out of my mouth, I was referring to the pathetic attendance of said Florida clubs. And n8, I never said I didn’t like you. I’m sure you’re amicable enough in real life. And if I didn’t like you, I’d just ignore your repetitve predictable posts. Just kidding. Some of your points are good, but you lose credibility with the Cox hatred. And the Bonds thing. And your love of the Marlins. And the Tex stuff. And…well, you get my point. It’s all in good fun. But posting as much as you do, and with all the negativety, you have to expect people to call you out on occasion. You have to admit, Cody’s scenario isn’t any more hairbrained than the Braves signing Bonds. So he’s dumb and you’re not? Doesn’t jive. And paragraphs are overrated. So are fourteen-year-old girl acronyms. So are guys that use girly acronyms calling other guys a girl.
By N8
June 27, 2008 12:16 AM | Link to this
Chop Chop
While your sarcasm is noted (and certainly appreciated), it’s not necessarily the fact that those guys play worse in the losses.
It’s HOW OFTEN that is occurring this year.
Take Chipper’s 1999 MVP season, for instance.
In the victories (99 games), he batted .348 with 33 HR and 92 RBI.
In the losses (only 58 games), he batted .268 with only 12 HR, and an ALARMING 18 RBI.
Plain as day, as Chipper went, so went the Braves.
So far this year, Chipper has been great in the losses, and EXTRAORDINARY in the victories.
IE: In 1999, Chipper essentially had 58 bad games (yeah, I realize that he probably had some good games in the losses, and lousy days in the wins).
In 2008, Tex has ALREADY had 41 pretty crappy games, and the season isn’t even half way over.
Capiche?
By BA
June 27, 2008 12:23 AM | Link to this
Klob, you should check out XM radio- they have the best baseball sports talk around. Especially Charlie Steiner’s “Baseball Beat” show. You even get to hear our fearless leader on that show occassionally. No man, and I repeat, NO man should have to resort to listening to Jim Rome.
By Texas Brave
June 27, 2008 12:26 AM | Link to this
N8 Chipper and Brian probably use their dad’s because they have served them well in the past and present. TP instruction would be for those players that don’t have that someone they can go to. I am still willing to bet that Chip and Brian still listen to what TP has to say.
By BA
June 27, 2008 12:28 AM | Link to this
And Tex plays better in the second half every year. So Chop’s point is still valid.
Comprende?
By CharlieAlphaBravo
June 27, 2008 12:32 AM | Link to this
Noticed y’all were comparing the attendance for the Rays and Marlins, and the Braves’ Wednesday afternoon game against the Brew-Crew. Unfortunately, you both failed to consider the “Mac Factor.” I’m sure if they had passed out McCann bobble-heads at the Fins’ game, they would have topped 35k.
By Roman Gal
June 27, 2008 12:35 AM | Link to this
I almost spit pop all over my monitor when I typed that. N8
Pop? Oy!
By chrisklob
June 27, 2008 12:39 AM | Link to this
BA, I’ve been thinking about satellite radio for a while but have held off because of the possible pending merger between XM and Sirius. Not sure what’s going to happen but I don’t want to be left “holding the bag” when things get finalized.
And Tex plays better in the second half every year.
I’ve been looking for some college stats for Tex. Can anyone help me out? The college baseball season starts around Feb. 1 (or at least it did when he was at Tech). I’ve got to call BS on Tex not hitting until it heats up. With the college season starting when it does and ending at the end of May (except for CWS tournament play) how the hell did he get drafted so high if he can’t hit until it’s warm?
To me, that’s just a sorry excuse.
By BA
June 27, 2008 12:42 AM | Link to this
Touche, Alpha.
By uga-brave
June 27, 2008 12:46 AM | Link to this
N8,
dont let cody get you down, my brother.
i loved your post about our inept outfield.
if we even had a decent outfield our record would be different.
we dont have one quality outfielder.
we are the cardinals, minus ryan ludwiw, and rick ankiel.
By N8
June 27, 2008 12:47 AM | Link to this
BA
Fair enough. I really don’t “dislike” you either.
There. We’ve made up. Isn’t that sweet.
I didn’t call cody any names (though he didn’t blink before spewing them my way). Just insinuated that he might be on “the dope”. Which was complete sarcasm.
Again, I don’t have “hatred” for Bobby. As for Bonds? It is what it is.
I think his bat would help. Period.
Yet, I have acknowledged that whatever baggage he brings along, might be counter productive. Along with his defense (or lack thereof).
The rest? Well, as a token of our new-found “friendship”, I’ll refrain from repeating myself…..tonight.
“No man, and I repeat, NO man should have to resort to listening to Jim Rome.”
I totally get why people that don’t like him, don’t like him. I’m sure it comes to no surprise to you that I appreciate his sarcasm, and silliness.
That being said, there isn’t an athlete out there that he’s reached out to, to be on his show, that have turned him down.
The dude does an EXCELLENT interview. Tex was on the other day, and though he side-stepped every question, Rome wasn’t afraid to ask the questions.
Smoltz was on after the Clemens crap came out, and was FANTASTIC.
Whether all of his nonsense is necessary is certainly debatable. But you can really get the sense that the athletes that come on his show, appreciate him and respect him.
As for my “love” of the Marlins? No love. Like I said, Braves fans should thank their lucky stars that they don’t have the money to keep their star players, or the NL East would be in trouble.
I’m just in awe of how they can sell of their stars, while fleecing their trade partners, and then not only compete with a 23 million dollar payroll, but keep up with the Phillies, and (so far) outplay the Mets and Braves.
Even with all of the payroll on the DL, the Braves still aren’t “DOWN” to 23 million dollars.
Just talented players (maybe playing a bit over their heads), that are playing hard, and being coached VERY well.
Last time I checked, they had some of their rotation on the shelf as well, right?
I would say that you have more NEGATIVE things to say about them, than I do good things.
They are “innocent by association” when it comes to being good, and us being bad.
Even you have to admit that “dollar for dollar” (or if you prefer the Roy Jones Jr. phrase of “pound per pound”), that’s a DAMN fine team.
Their payroll is 23 million. Tex, Chipper, and Hudson are making 43 million this year.
Kevin Gregg is their “highest” paid player at 2.5 million. Wanna know who the 2nd highest paid player is? Wes Helms at 2.4 million.
Pretty amazing if you ask me.
By Chop Chop
June 27, 2008 12:51 AM | Link to this
(I’m bored as hell…)
N8,
Here are some interesting exceptions to the general rule of “playing well leads to wins, playing crappy leads to losses”:
Barry Bonds in 2001
He hit .371/.557/1.012 with 47 HRs and 89 RBI in the 83 Giants wins he appeared in.
In the 70 losses Bonds took part in, he hit .277/.463/.691 with 26 HR and 48 RBI.
Statistically, Bonds was nowhere near the force in losses as he was in wins. However, when compared to the non-Ivan Dragos of the world, Bonds was positively murdering the ball in those 70 losses.
Bob Gibson in 1968
He posted a 1.12 ERA overall during a 22-9 season. He completed 28 games that year, including 13 shutouts.
In Gibson’s 22 wins, he compiled an 0.57 ERA. Every win was a complete game. He allowed 2 HR in 204 innings.
In Gibson’s 9 losses, he put up a 2.14 ERA. He completed six of those games. He allowed a “whopping” Chuck James-like 6 HR in 75.2 innings.
These two all-time great single-season cases show that it is possible to be great when your team loses. It’s just damn hard to do.
By N8
June 27, 2008 12:52 AM | Link to this
Roman Gal
“Pop? Oy!”
Yeah, yeah, yeah. I just had a buddy that grew up with me up here in the central plains, and moved to South Carolina in the late 80’s.
He just came back up here for his cousin’s wedding and his kids got a kick out of everybody calling soda “pop” around here.
It is what it is. Sorry. If you want me to type, using a “Fargo” accent, I can.
By uga-brave
June 27, 2008 12:57 AM | Link to this
klobber,
the voice of reason?
if we had somewhat of a decent outfield, do you not think we would be closer?
our pitching has been pretty darn good.
francoeur was supposed to be a 35 120 guy.
instead he is the worst right fielder in baseball.
since he has been here we have won nothing.
we put jordan, drew, sheffield, and even mondessi out there and we won.
trot out golden boy and we are barely .500.
By N8
June 27, 2008 1:04 AM | Link to this
Chop Chop
“However, when compared to the non-Ivan Dragos of the world, Bonds was positively murdering the ball in those 70 losses.”
Dude. Don’t go there. Ivan Drago was NOT juicing up. Those were B-12 shots his trainers were giving him in those scenes.
If he would have known how hideous that Brigitte Nielson (sp?) was gonna turn out, he may have asked that they give him heroine instead.
YIKES.
By Roman Gal
June 27, 2008 1:08 AM | Link to this
If you want me to type, using a “Fargo” accent, I can. N8
Well that would be something…interesting to say the least.
When I visited the Mall of America I had a hard time understanding what people were saying. And they had “Pop Machines” instead of “Coke Machines.”
It’s just that when I think of “pop” I think of Ponyboy and Johnny (The Outsiders).
On the bright side, when I wore my Braves shirt I met a lot of Braves fans up there. So I guess not all of you midwesterners are so bad.
By BA
June 27, 2008 1:09 AM | Link to this
I think a lot of the Marlin’s success (this year, anyway) can be attributed to Freddy Gonzalez, a (you guessed it) Bobby Cox disciple. I also don’t think they’ll be in second place at the end of the year. However, as much as I like TP (he was one of my favorite players as a kid) I too wonder about his effectiveness. Unlike McDowell, I can’t think of many guys he’s helped improve. Maybe Diaz? Francoeur is a strange bird, someone who’s at his best being overly aggressive at the dish. I also think he might be hurting more than he’s willing to admit. Of course, I’ll admit this is all purely speculative. I’m tapping out on the Bonds thing, out of pure bordom. But I’ll leave it with this: “I think his bat would help, period.” Yeah, if this was playstation. It’s not. Bonds will be sitting in his lazyboy, but not in a MLB clubhouse, until next March. When he might just be going to jail. Not even a poorly run team (can you say M-E-T-S) would bring that disgrace back.
By N8
June 27, 2008 1:13 AM | Link to this
uga
“we put jordan, drew, sheffield, and even mondessi out there and we won.”
Alright. You made me curious, so I had to look. Alas, you were right.
In Mondesi’s “tenure” in Atlanta, the Braves went 24-17 in games he played.
That being said, he had VERY LITTLE to do with the success. Since I’m on the topic of stats in wins, along with stats in losses, I’ll elaborate:
In the 24 wins (23 starts), Mondesi hit .236 with 4 HR and 13 RBI.
In the 17 losses (16 starts), he hit .170 with 0 HR and 4 RBI.
So, like I said. Sure we won with Mondesi, and I know you don’t like Jeff. But you’re gonna have a hard time convincing me (or anybody) that we won because of Mondesi, rather than winning in spite of him.
By chrisklob
June 27, 2008 1:17 AM | Link to this
uga, voice of reason?
I try to be. I’m a reasonable guy and try to make reasonable posts here. Not alway successful though.
if we had somewhat of a decent outfield, do you not think we would be closer?
Totally agree. The Kotsay injury hurts. In spite of Diaz’s early offensive troubles, his injury hurt oo. Hopefully they’ll be able to contribute again soon.
since he has been here we have won nothing.
I am no Francoeur apologist, but that statement is not completely true. The Braves won the East in 2005, his rookie year.
I still maintain that there is some sort of physical problem with him. He’s young and has posted good numbers in the past. There’s no reason that he shouldn’t post good numbers now or in the future unless there’s something wrong with him (i.e. ankle). Have you seen him run? He runs like he hurts. Or maybe it’s his eyes. He HAS been hit in the fact twice in the past four years. WOuldn’t surprise me if we learned that he had some sort of degenerative eye issue due to those two injuries.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 27, 2008 1:23 AM | Link to this
To the BLOG
I look at the College WS that just ended as a perfect example of baseball — in all it’s unpredictable wonder. 2 of the lowest seeded teams there beat all the top ranked teams and made it one of the most memorable tourny’s played.
Let’s skip over metal vs. wood bats for now and just look at the way teams can go on a run and win it all. I think UGA had a great year and stand proud of them and congratulate Fresno State - gotta like em cuz their BULLDOGS TOO.
But even more so as a player/fan b/c it is what I have been saying since it first posted here - patience and leadership will make the difference. The kind of leadership that Bobby brings to the Braves is emulated all over the country and I think if you watched you saw how a steady hand can guide a team to new heights.
I will therefore continue to wait and watch as my predictions come true and we move toward the top of the division. You’re already seeing the Bravos show more fight at the end of games — even if they are not winning more they are putting themselves in position to. It will continue on this track and start to produce more wins as the season progresses.
GO BRAVOS !!!!!!
By uga-brave
June 27, 2008 1:23 AM | Link to this
gloves are off,
if you dont think local boy is costing us games read the next post.
2100 at-bats and our star right rielder THAT WE DEPENDED ON IS REGRESSING.
well ankiel has 14, ludwig has 15, dye has 18, cralos lee has 15, ryan braun has 19, cameron has 11, burell has 19, corey hart has 12,
golden boy has 8, hit two in one game.
frank wren bet on this guy and lost.
well at least he went to parkview, and we can sell some jerseys.
By N8
June 27, 2008 1:24 AM | Link to this
“Francoeur is a strange bird, someone who’s at his best being overly aggressive at the dish.”
Totally agree. The stats prove that when he swings early in the count, he has success.
However THERE lies the problem. Little old me (a dude that has now spent about 12 hours blogging today - give or take a few), has access to those stats.
Which means that other MLB teams do as well. So why on earth would teams throw him ANYTHING resembling a strike early in the count? The answer, is that they DON’T.
Yet he still chases them. It’s not his aggressiveness that his killing him. It’s the pitches he SELECTS to be aggressive on.
Again. A spot where Cox may have him go up there with the ORDER to keep the bat on his shoulder.
Until he adjusts and starts taking more walks, or learn to foul off more pitches to get the one he wants, he’s gonna struggle.
That being said, due to his ability to hit pitches that are all over the strike zone, he will have great success again when he “gets it”.
Your guess is as good as mine if that is gonna be anytime soon. I suspect it won’t be this year. Dude looks lost.
He could be hurting as you suggest. Hard to say.
By N8 Bit** Fest
June 27, 2008 1:29 AM | Link to this
If the Braves were serious, they’d get Jason Bay. Outstanding player. Doubt they’d really outbid for him.
Trade talks now are pointless. The Braves never do anything till at least mid-July. Remember 2006? When it was obvious they needed bullpen help desperately, they sat around and kept losing and only did something (trade for Bob Wickman on July 24) after it was too late.
In the same year, the Mets had a starting rotation hole and filled it in May with the trade for Orlando Hernandez.
That’s the difference between winners and losers. Winners act quickly and do what needs to be done. Losers wait till July 30th and allow for the problem to fester longer and cost the team wins.
By Moby Grape
June 27, 2008 1:29 AM | Link to this
People please stop the madness - we don’t need Bonds. I repeat we don’t need Bonds. What are you people thinking?TK
remember that the one posting much of the pro-Bonds stuff is N8. So you can figure that at least part of the reason he is doing that is to be contrary and elicit just such responses. :-)
By uga-brave
June 27, 2008 1:33 AM | Link to this
N8,
I THINK you missed my point, it would be nicer to have a SHEFF
in the outfield.
our outfield is the problem.
N8, but then again we have diaz, kotsay coming back.
that will solve everything.
they are big time players. what?
By Moby Grape
June 27, 2008 1:34 AM | Link to this
People please stop the madness - we don’t need Bonds. I repeat we don’t need Bonds. What are you people thinking?TomahawkKris
remember that the one posting most of the pro-Bonds rhetoric is N8. You can figure that at least part of the reason is to be contrary and elicit just such responses :-)
By uga-brave
June 27, 2008 1:54 AM | Link to this
face the facts, with our payroll that we plowed into pitching, we thought that our right fielder would become a run producer.
what we got is a apoligist, that is trying contact lenses.
we thought that frenchy was a RYAN BRAUN type player, at least a PAT THE BAT type guy, we ended up with AUSTIN KEARNS.
but then again, he is young he will figure it out
our outfield is not good, probably the worst in the N.L, nice .ops frenchy.
.700 .ops any stiff could do that.
By BA
June 27, 2008 1:58 AM | Link to this
UGA- Kotsay: career .282 hitter Diaz: .310 career hitter
They aren’t Sheffs. But they’ll surely help.
By Andy K.
June 27, 2008 2:06 AM | Link to this
DOB: Is Yunel Escobar making the trip to Toronto this year? Wasn’t there an issue last year when either Richmond or Atlanta went to Canada, and Escobar was left behind and sent to AA for three games, due to visa/passport issues?
By uga-brave
June 27, 2008 2:09 AM | Link to this
BA,
count me those diaz’s extra base hits.
he is a power source? no
By N8
June 27, 2008 2:14 AM | Link to this
uga
I didn’t miss your point. Just wanted to point out that Mondesi had NOTHING to do with the winning record in the 1/4 season he played in Atlanta.
Moby
“You can figure that at least part of the reason is to be contrary and elicit just such responses :-)”
Not this time. We need a bat (a cheap one would be nice - and one that we don’t have to sacrifice the farm for), and he needs a job (and his agent claims he’s willing to work for cheap and donate salary towards tickets for kids to attend games).
Really nothing more than simple math at it’s finest. If you, other bloggers, the Braves, Hammerin’ Hank and Selig want to refer to the “other stuff” as reasons NOT to do so….that’s cool.
But between the lines, he would cost less and help more than ANYBODY who has been mentioned on this blog as possible trade bait, if winning NOW is at the forefront of Wren’s mind.
That is unless we can trade Chuck James for Josh Hamilton. Then I say we do THAT.
N8 Bit Fest**
Nice post. Not sure I’m sold on Bay. But your point of the Braves waiting too long in the pat couple of years is a GREAT ONE.
On a side note, apparently Chalmers and Mayo WON’T be teammates in Minnesota, after all, huh?
By uga-brave
June 27, 2008 2:25 AM | Link to this
no matter what i love the N8,
you always make sense my brother.
i know they make you out as a negative guy, but i think you are a realist.
By N8
June 27, 2008 2:36 AM | Link to this
Thanks uga.
I’m off to bed. Been a long day of nothingness.
Enjoy the weekend everybody. I will…..being “single” and all with the fam out of town.
I sense a lot of sleeping in this weekend.
By Moby Grape
June 27, 2008 3:08 AM | Link to this
Not this time. We need a bat (a cheap one would be nice - and one that we don’t have to sacrifice the farm for), and he needs a job (and his agent claims he’s willing to work for cheap and donate salary towards tickets for kids to attend games).N8
Oh I’m willing to believe that you are serious about it too, but I refuse to believe that you don’t get a kick out of people over-reacting to your posts.
I would have no problem with it. It might work.
By CharlieAlphaBravo
June 27, 2008 3:47 AM | Link to this
2100 at-bats and our star right rielder THAT WE DEPENDED ON IS REGRESSING. … frank wren bet on this guy and lost. uga-brave
Ummm, what exactly did Wren bet on Frenchy again? Are you referring to the 2002 Draft 23rd overall pick that was made when John Schuerholz was GM, or the $460k Wren’s dishing out to him this year?
If you’re going to bash Frankie for “betting” on our 24-year-old, Gold Glove winning right fielder, at least wait until he actually signs Frenchy.
In case you have forgotten, Jeffrey has hit .275 with 70 HR and 294 RBI in 473 of 475 games played for the Braves, with 50 outfield assists…
For around $400k a year.
But what have you done for me lately, right?
By nolie
June 27, 2008 5:36 AM | Link to this
Btw, you see Stark’s Rumblings where he said we aren’t looking at Holliday if only because we don’t have the prospects to offer? What kind of crap is thatFloridaBrave
maybe he figures that most of our best prospects are a little further down in the minors levels than most other teams would be interested in? We don’t really have a lot of high-rated prospects that are ready to jump into the bigs and make an immediate impact and most teams usually want someone like that when trading a player of Holliday’s rep. Personally I’m just as glad they aren’t interested. Not that he isn’t a pretty decent player, but his stats away from Coors are not good enough to make him worth the salary he will start collecting IMO.
By nolie
June 27, 2008 5:53 AM | Link to this
CaptCaveman
didn’t mean to ignore you. I was gonna respond the other night and something came up and I forgot until just now. Oh the bane of old age.
I can see why you want to explain something from the point of view of having been there and seen how things usually really work. However I’ve pretty much given up on that approach.
The people who say the types of things that make you want to set them straight pretty much have their minds made up as to how it really is in their opinion and they are often not the most rational willing-to-listen guys or they probably wouldn’t be ranting in the first place .
I posted a story on the minor league experience that night which I and several friends thought really gave some insights into the experience, but I doubt more than one or 2 posters bothered to give it a read…of course it was long and the ADD and football mentality prevalent here would preclude much interest anyway. J/K,… at least mostly.
Good luck if you continue trying, it can get frustrating. Most don’t care and many will just think that you are trying to put on airs cause you had some experience.
Guess this might sound sort of condescending towards others and I really don’t mean it that way so I believe I’ll quit before I alienate even more denizens than I already have since I’ve been here. ;-)
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 27, 2008 7:09 AM | Link to this
Hey Nolie
I didn’t think you were ignoring, I figured you were asleep. LOL
As for alienating bloggers b/c we have been there and actually done it, well personally I say - WHO CARES !!!
I’m proud of the fact that I had the guts to go take my shot, and I found that I could compete with them. It just came down to a choice of time, I didn’t want to devote 10 yrs to the “possibility” of The Show. You know as well as I do that the minors are filled with guys that will never make it, just filling out teams rosters until they get sent home for good.
If somebody here wants to feel whatever it is they feel that makes them dislike people who just speak the truth — than whatever. Jealousy,envy,or just a plain ‘ole HATER isn’t going to change the way I speak here or the way I live in the REAL WORLD.
I think if those of us who know continue to tell it like it is than eventually we can change the flow here from some of the total idiots and morons to the more informed and opinionated debates that have actual merit.
Of course, I’m still on time-out with DOB but I’m sure he’ll get over it someday.
By Major Tom
June 27, 2008 7:57 AM | Link to this
Let’s hope Escobar does learn to temper those emotions —we certainly don’t want him going ‘Shawn Chacon’ on anybody.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this
We’ll have a new blog up within 45 minutes, and you can hold me to that.
By Cecil34
June 27, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this
The reality:
51 wins to go to get to 90.
90 will take the division.
Braves must play .622 ball to get there.
For those that think it won’t take 90:
how about 88 wins?
49 more to go for 88.
Braves must play .597 ball to get there.
Braves now? .488
Braves need a whole lot of “delta v”.
By Efrim
June 27, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this
This from MLB.com:
A scout on Seattle right-hander Felix Hernandez before Hernandez sprained his ankle on Monday night: “You can build around that guy. Throwing 97 [mph], throwing strikes. Hard slider, changeup. That’s some pretty good stuff.”
No s** bro. What rock have you been hiding under?
By ncscoots
June 27, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this
Braves need a whole lot of “delta v”.
So what? That’s the nature of the game, peaks and valleys. At least one team will go on such a run, if not more. Happens every year, so why should this year be any different?
Whether the Braves will be one of those teams is TBD. But you make it sound as if it is a mountain that can’t be climbed, and little could be further from the truth.
Win series at home, play .500 on the road. That’s a focus that makes sense. Putting some half-season number on wins needed doesn’t. Braves need to win one more game than anybody else in the division, that’s the only “number of wins” that counts.
By ncscoots
June 27, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this
We’ll have a new blog up within 45 minutes, and you can hold me to that.
But can we “take it to the bank”?
By Cecil34
June 27, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this
NC
But admittedly, they will have to be around that win total “ballpark”…..
By KC
June 27, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this
By David O’Brien
June 27, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this
We’ll have a new blog up within 45 minutes, and you can hold me to that.
Hmmm… well it’s 9:54, and I’m not mathematician, but…
=)
By McFann©
June 27, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this
I don’t see how anyone can question McCann’s effort, game in and game out. Unless this anyone is a puuuuuurrre IDIOT. Shamus Thacker
I’m with you!
CharlieAlphaBravo—
“Mac Factor” for sure!
By Efrim
June 27, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this
Cecil34
I think there is at least one team a year in each league that does what you just said. I think the Yankees have done it two years in a row. Twins have done that a lot as well. It happens. Not sure if the Braves can do that, but we find that out soon. They used to be able to play .600 ball from June on into October.
By nolie
June 27, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this
But can we “take it to the bank”?Scoots
I guess not. It is now 53 minutes at least by my computer and I an getting sick & tired of waiting. I want my new blog NOW or I’m gonna have a hissy !!
By Cecil34
June 27, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this
Efrim
Right on….
Not saying that it can’t be done, but it must be done to be there….
By JimD
June 27, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this
By David O’Brien
June 27, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this
We’ll have a new blog up within 45 minutes, and you can hold me to that.
That must be 45 minutes Canadian
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this
POST button has been hit on NEW BLOG
By KC
June 27, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this
JimD: No that can’t be, because the American minute is actually weaker than the Canadian minute right now. So… if it takes 45 minutes American to post a new blog, it would only take about 40 minutes in Canadian time.
By KC
June 27, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this
Maybe DOB had a little too much fiber in his breakfast this morning and was interrupted in the middle of posting the new blog.
Nah… he probably uses a laptop, so that shouldn’t slow him down…
By santa3247
June 29, 2008 3:44 AM | Link to this
Hey!! David O’Brian!!
Don’t scratch the best short-stop in Brave’s history.
Why don’t you scratch Joseph Reyes and Gregor Blanco and Greg Norton and Manny Acosta and Jeff Bennet and Brent Lilibride?^*^
If Yunel Escobar would have defect of one thing, David O’brian your friends have 100 things.^*^
You gave up your life under last judgement?^^ Justice Sense and Conscience you deleted from your mind?^^ And you deleted God from your mind.^*^
Whole natural things is yours? You just found them? Who made that? Seth? Jesus? ^*^
You are now exactly under the animal. Animal don’t lie. ^*^
May the curse of Golden Censor be with you^*^
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November 13, 2008 7:33 AM | Link to this
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