AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2008 > June > 27 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USBest ERA in the National League. No, seriously
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Toronto — It’s only a 1-hour, 40-minute plane ride from Atlanta, but this is a world away. You know that when you see dozens of folks crowded around everr TV at every bar on Thursday afternoon to watch a “football” game — and it’s the Russia-Spain game from Euro2008. What most of us back home refer to as soccer.
Then there are the “Viva Cuba” tourism advertisements plastered all over Toronto city buses (not to mention the various brands of very real, very good Cuban cigars for sale in the tobacco shop next to this Marriott).
Speaking of my hotel, as I type I’m looking at the roof of 160-year-old Church of the Holy Trinity, where Cowboy Junkies recorded their classic Trinity Session in 1988, and this year’s reworking of that album. The church roof is literally about 80 feet from my seventh-floor window.
But anyway … we’re here to talk about the Braves, so let’s do this.
If someone had told you in, say, January, that the Braves would have the National League’s best overall ERA on June 25, and also the best starters’ ERA, you probably would’ve expected John Smoltz and Tom Glavine would be having big years, and perhaps that ol’ Mike Hampton had finally made it back. Am I right? I mean, think about it.
That’s why it’s so surprising, even amazing, to see the Braves with a league-best 3.69 ERA today, and their injury-ravaged rotation with a league-best 3.88 ERA. Even the depleted bullpen, without Rafael Soriano and Peter Moylan, ranks third in the NL with a 3.37 ERA (albeit with a meager 13 saves in only 23 opportunities — yikes).
They have a better starters’ ERA than the Carlos Zambrano/Ryan Dempster-led Cubs, or the Diamondbacks of Brandon Webb/Dan Haren/Micah Owings/Randy Johnson.
This with a rotation that has a total of five wins and 17 starts from the trio of Smoltz, Glavine and Hampton, who are all on the disabled list (12 of those 17 starts came from Glavine, the others from Smoltz).
People, the Braves have the best ERA in the NL, with a starting rotation currently combrised of Tim Hudson and guys named Jo-Jo, Jorge, Jair and Charlie. If anyone had told you that was possible in February, you’d have asked what they were smoking — or told them to go watch more Euro2008 “football.”
That 3.88 starters’ ERA includes Chuck James’ 8.22 in five starts when he was brought back sooner than planned from the DL because of all the other injuries, and struggled so badly he said he needed to re-learn how to pitch. Anyway….
The point of all this? Well, I guess my point, as it were, is three-fold:
That those of you who are dreaming up all these trade scenarios by which the Braves can land C.C. Sabathia or some other available starter before July 31 aren’t really paying attention to the team’s priority ladder, because starting pitching isn’t anywhere near the top;
The Braves have managed to stay in the race when no one could have imagined they would, given all their injuries;
And, perhaps most importantly, 3. This team is in danger of wasting some very commendable work by the aforementioned foursome of Jo-Jo (Reyes), Jorge (Campillo), Jair (Jurrjens) and Charlie (Morton). By that I mean, Braves hitters are wasting it. The onus is on them, more than anyone else.
We’ve talked about this at length, so I won’t go through it all again, how they need much better production from the only healthy member of their opening day outfield, Jeff Francoeur. How then need to get Mark Kotsay back in the lineup next week, hitting like he did before his back flared. How they need Matt Diaz back in a couple of weeks, hitting as he did in 2006-2007 and not as he did this season before he crashed into a wall and hurt his knee.
And how they need — OK, we’re rehashing when we said we wouldn’t — Chipper Jones to stay healthy, obviously. Absolutely need that. And they need more consistent performance from free-agent-to-be slugger Mark Teixeira, who’s working towards another 30-40 homers and 115-125 RBIs, but frankly hasn’t had a big-impact type of season so far. Just hasn’t.
They need much better work from the leadoff spot, whoever they decide to use in that role the rest of the way.
And they need to get another right-handed bat before the trade deadline, because they can’t count on all or perhaps even most of the above needs to be filled.
The Braves start a three-game series tonight against a Toronto team that lost 15 of 20 games before taking two of three this week from Cincy. The Blue Jays ain’t exactly the Boston Red Sox, so the Braves need to make this last interleague series — it is the last one, right? — a productive one.
Tonight’s game won’t be easy, with Jurrjens facing righty Dustin McGowan, who is 4-1 with a 1.73 ERA in six home starts. But he’s right-handed, and the Braves have the second-highest average and third-best slugging percentage in the NL against righties (against lefties they’re seventh in average and an awful 15th in slugging at .377, ahead of only the Nats’ .371 - did I mention they need a right-handed bat? Just checking.)
They face a lefty tomorrow, but you’ve got to like Tim Hudson in a matchup against John Parrish, a 30-year-old lefty who has spent this season in Triple-A and been recalled to make a fill-in start for sore-elbowed Shaun Marcum.
Parrish is 12-12 with a 4.63 ERA in 161 major leagues game including 10 starts, and eight of those starts were at the beginning of his career in 2000. He hasn’t started a game in the bigs since 2004, and has a 2-6 record and 6.85 ERA as a starter.
Then again, he was 10-1 with a 2.74 ERA in 15 games (11 starts) this season in Triple-A, with 90 strikeouts in 82 innings.
Tex vs. Toronto: Teixeira has a .306 career average with 15 homers and 41 RBIs in 39 games against the Blue Jays, including .324 with 14 homers and in his past 29 games. Most of that damage was done, however, at the Rangers’ ballpark in Texas; he’s only hit .200 with three homers in 17 games at Toronto’s retractable dome.
By the way, Teixeira’s got a charity golf tourney on Monday at White Columns Country Club in Alpharetta. Proceeds from the event will go to Prevent Child Abuse Georgia, a statewide non-profit organization. If you want to play or donate call 404-870-6589, or e-mail lorend@pcageorgia.org.
As for the possibility of him re-upping with the Braves, Is it a good sign that Teixeira is bothering to set up a golf tourney in Atlanta? Or does it mean anything at all? I don’t know.
Game on the Green: I don’t know what the weather’s like back in Atlanta, but hopefully it’s good for Saturday’s first Game on the Green in Smyrna Market Village. My understanding is that they’re showing the game on two huge outdoor screens there (don’t cost nothin’).
Maybe they’ll even show a shot of us typing away in the pressbox. Bowman on the giant outdoor screen - oh, my.
CD additions: Couple of you were right about the new Wolf Parade CD. I got in here yesterday, and it’s great. I’d have that on my best-of the half-year list, along with one I forgot when I made that list last week, Bon Iver’s Emma Forever. Also, for those fans of the eclectic and brilliant Bonnie “Prince” Billy, I got his new CD Lie Down In the Light yesterday, and it might be his best. One other purchase: Sloan’s Parallel Play. Great Canandian rock band.
Speaking of great Canadians, let’s take it out with a classic from The Man.
“EVERYBODY KNOWS THIS IS NOWHERE” by Neil Young
I think I’d like to go back home
And take it easy
There’s a woman that I’d like to get to know
Living there
Everybody seems to wonder
What it’s like down here
I gotta get away from this day-to-day running around,
Everybody knows this is nowhere.
Everybody, everybody knows
Everybody knows.
Every time I think about back home
It’s cool and breezy
I wish that I could be there right now
Just passing time.
Everybody seems to wonder
What it’s like down here
I gotta get away from this day-to-day running around,
Everybody knows this is nowhere.
Everybody, everybody knows
Everybody knows.
Comments
By McFann©
June 27, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this
Haven’t done this in a while: First?
By SeaAtl
June 27, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this
DOB - I loved the blog as always and agree with you 99% that pitching isn’t the problem, inconsistent offense is….at least for NOW. My worry is that, if the Braves don’t get too far out of first, will these young pitchers still be pitching this well in August, September, or even October (if this team plays in October)? These guys have been great, but they’re young and somewhat untested…….
By Marty
June 27, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this
FIRST. That said, the Braves just haven’t been good enough to win this year. What I mean is they stay in games but then they seem new and creative ways to lose close games. If they had won even half of those games where would they be? At or near the top of NL east. I was pleasantly surprised about the pitching but how long can that crew (other than Huddy) keep it going? Maybe Gonzo will be the stopper we need in the 9th. Maybe the vets come back strong, hot and hitting or one of the kids brings it from the minors. We’ll see but without “something” else to go with the starting pitching, we’re in for another 3rd place finish.
By JimD
June 27, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this
You gotta love a blog that is so bold.
By David-ATL14
June 27, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this
DOB when you get to the park give us an update on Infante’s status. Would be greatly appreciated.
Could be pretty thin with Chipper being questionable along with Infante.
I’m sure a 4 Man bench that consists of a hobbled Infante and “no sticks” Lillibridge & Miller leaves Bobby hoping against all hope that Cito doesn’t trot out a endless supply of lefty relievers in close and late situations.
By Cecil34
June 27, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this
We have pitching - DOB’s stats prove that. We have starting pitching that is only going to get better.
If Wren does make a deal for a position player in the future, he needs to do it without compromising our pitching and especially our minor league pitching.
It is far easier to plug positional holes than find good pitchers.
By Bravesologist
June 27, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this
Yunel Escobar being solely a singles hitter is a problem as well. He doesn’t put himself in scoring position for Chipper and Teix well enough at the top of the lineup.
By Graham
June 27, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this
DOB
Great work, as usual! It seems unfathomable that the Braves could have the best ERA in the NL, much less still be in the race. Hopefully the players can become healthy and really get things going, especially with the Phillies struggling.
The Braves need a healthy outfield and an additional big bat for production. An article today over at sabernomics.com suggested that, since Barry Bonds is willing to sign for the league minimum, the Braves should sign him. I am having a difficult time trying to see Bonds fitting in anywhere within the organization, even as a bat boy. Your thoughts on this suggestion? (http://www.sabernomics.com)
By Bryan
June 27, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this
Shaun Marcum
By Lee in S. GA
June 27, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this
Lack of timely hitting has been the most frustrating part of the season so far. So many wasted opportunities due to good starting pitching and the team not being able to produce enough runs to win. Majority of these games resulting in 1 run losses. Hopefully this team can play around 500 until some of these players come off the DL and hope they can spark the offense. As far as Frenchy, I just don’t think he will snap out of this funk this season. Then the Braves are going to have to take a long look at him during the off-season. I for one am glad that the Braves did not sign Frenchy to a contract similar to McCann’s. If he comes around fine; if he don’t the Braves will be looking for a new RF by the middle of next season if not sooner.
By 18 Wheels of Love
June 27, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this
Peterbilt
Peterbilt
By Run Heap Run!
June 27, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this
Bold blog and comments = sweep!
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this
SeaAtl: That’s a fair concern. You’d certainly like to have a more experienced starter to pair with Hudson and Jurrjens and whoever else for a possible playoff series. But for now, that’s got to be down the priority list, wouldn’t you agree? Gotta fill other needs first.
By BigD
June 27, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this
Why the Braves should sign BARRY BONDS!?
Interesting article from Sabernomics.com.
http://www.sabernomics.com/sabernomics/index.php/2008/06/do-it-why-the-braves-should-sign-barry-bonds/
By Frustrated, Inc.
June 27, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this
DOB: Just to clarify, the game on the green thingy is for the Saturday 1 O’clock game. I had to double check because I plan to be there with several other Bravo fans in tow. Should be a good time.
By BigD
June 27, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this
DOB - Thoughts on the Barry Bonds article at Sabernomics???
By lennie g
June 27, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this
I’d love to see Jason Bay in left field “if the price is right”. However, I’m a’feared that he might prove to costly. Could be wrong though…
By BabyGoatEater
June 27, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this
D@mn guys, give a brother a break……err….let a guy wake up.
Good blog DOB. I’ve been reading even though I don’t post usually. A couple of Mets trolls and Robert shunned me away.The mets troll hasn’t been on in a while. O’ Where are though distinguished and unhonorably foe?
By MGL
June 27, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this
JimD, the blog is inconsistent in its boldness, similar to Braves offense.
By SoWeGa Fanatic
June 27, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this
I love the thought of adding Jason Bay to the lineup.
By IlliniBrave
June 27, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this
DOB:
Love the blog, as always. But two things:
First, why the cheap-shot comment regarding soccer? Please please please tell me you’re not one of those dumba$$ rednecks that can’t stand soccer. [BTW, anytime someone gives me crap about soccer being boring, I simply reply, “and watching cars drive in circles for three hours is what - intellectually stimulating?”]
Second, love Neil Young’s music and shrill voice, but would have picked a different song - probably “Cowgirl in the Sand” or “Ohio” or “Helpless”
By Run Heap Run!
June 27, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this
Not with the Barry comments again. The Braves would never ever sign Barry. Period. End of story. Move on.
DOB - there was no infielder call up? Are the braves in town yet?
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this
BigD, it makes little, if any, sense for the Braves. He’s a huge pain in the clubhouse, and he’s 44 next month, and you or I have no idea what condition he might be in these days. Until I hear a Braves official indicate there is any chance in hell they’d go after him, I’m not believing there’s any chance. And I haven’t heard any indication whatsoever it’s being considered.
By BravesFanInRockies
June 27, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this
BigD,
Can’t speak for DOB, but for my part you can forget Bonds.
Even if he weren’t a clubhouse poison (see last blog for DOB’s comments there), he can’t play the OF at all anymore. His knees are shot and the Chick Fil A cow could wear his uni. He’s a DH, period.
Not going to be signed.
By TURTSNAP
June 27, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this
Hey DOB to carry over from Mark’s blog yesterday, some on here would be shocked that it wasn’t mentioned that the Braves need to fire Bobby Cox. I say some, just the dummies of course.
I haven’t been to Toronto in 25 years. I loved the city then and wonder how much it has changed since then. I remember going to a Toronto vs. Milwaukee (back when the Brewers were AL) game and watching that outfield of Barfield, Bell and Moseby. Man, what an OF that was!!! What I remember most about Toronto was that you actually felt safe walking down the city streets at night.
By Rufio
June 27, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this
I could never see myself cheering for Barry, I dont care what he signs for or what kind of production he brings to the table
By beau vighn
June 27, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this
D’OB, how can MLB justify only suspending that bum of an umpire Paul Runge one game for bumping Jerry manuel. If the roles would have been reversed I bet Manuel would be looking at a 3-5 game suspension and some ungodly fine. I am sick and tired of these prima donna umpires who think the game is all about them. That idiot Angel Hernandez is the worst.
By chris
June 27, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this
DOB,
Would you agree that Morton and perhaps B. Jones are the Braves best trading chips? Would you trade him (or them) for a bat like Bay, given that you have Hampton and Glavine possibly on their way back and some solid prospects in A and AA for the future?
Chris from MD
By Cooper
June 27, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this
SP has been a bright spot but the idea that 4 rookies and Hudson can get through the dog days of summer and into the playoffs - even if a bat is acquired - is a dicey proposition.
Morton is approaching career highs for innings pitched (in a season) and while he has looked quite good he also looks pretty tired by the 5-6 inning.
JOJO has vastly improved but he has and will have some stinkers. The same is true of JJ.
Camp seems the most consistent apart from blister days but many still think this Cinderella story will come to an end at some point.
The pen started strong then was abysmal and is now looking a little better. The season numbers look ok but avgs can be deceiving. This pen is not that good. Better with Gonzo still not very good.
Still too many innings pitched for any pen this early in the year and saves as you point out are pretty poor. Gonzo should improve the latter but we cannot expect him to be lights out all the time.
So while a OF bat with pop is sorely needed (top priority) a 1A/2 starter (Harden, Harang, Greinke) and another pen arm (not a rookie) are needed as well to get anywhere in the playoffs.
The NL East is a mess right now and the only reason the Braves are not already out of it is b/c the other teams are as flawed.
The design center for improving this team cannot be limited to get one more bat. It won’t be enough as we saw last year when we added Tex. This team needs three moves not one magic bullet.
For example if the Phillies get a Harden and the Braves get a Nady do you think the Braves can actually over take them?
By JimD
June 27, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this
MGL Funny. And true. About the Braves that is. Love the blog!
BigD I read that blog by Sabernomics earlier this morning. I would not call it interesting, I would call it hooey.
Not seeing Bonds all year has caused people to forget how painful it was to watch him play LF anymore …when he could. He stayed in the DL quite a bit the last bit. On second thought, maybe he would fit right in here! But NO. NO. And a thousand times NO.
Sabernomics is about as good a talent evaluator as Omar Minaya is a HR Officer. Or Ed Wade is a WWE competitor.
Someone else on the blog said it yesterday, and I agree, what would bringing Bonds to ATL say to Hank Aaron?
By HighCheese
June 27, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this
Great blog as usual, DOB. I hope the off-day yesterday did some good for the Braves. 16 games in 16 days can take its toll on a team.
By LivininAL
June 27, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this
Great info as always! Just thinking folks IF Glavin a returns and IF IF IF Hampton returns, who do you kick out of the starting rotation?
By Run Heap Run!
June 27, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this
This is a good one on bossman:
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/sportsline/main10877666.shtml
By BravesFanInRockies
June 27, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this
Also from the last blog, here are my GM moves.
1) When Kotsay returns, send down Lil’ Bridge (IF all the infielders are healthy); if not, send down B. Jones until they are and then bring him back.
2) When Diaz returns, try to sneak Gotay thru waivers. Platoon of Diaz/B. Jones, with Infante and Blanco avaiable to spell Z-man regularly.
3) When Prado returns, try sneaking Blanco thru waivers, or if B. Jones isn’t hitting, option him to Richmond. I’m not wild about these alternatives, so here’s where they might try to make a move for another OF bat (say, Winn or B. Giles or Murton).
4) When Hamp and/or Glavine return, send Morton back to Richmond and reduce his workload to protect his arm. He’s already pitched more innings than last year. You don’t want to ruin his career. Keep Campillo in the rotation.
The theme is — stay within the system if possible until late July. If they’re out of it at that time, then contemplate moving Tex.
By Coach Smith
June 27, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this
DOB
Great blog…….
I totally agree that pitching is NOT the problem.
It seems that most of the time when one of the starters has a “bad night” he is still only giving up 3-5 runs.
If your offense is where it should be, you should be able to bail out a pitcher every now and then when he goes out and gives up 4 Runs over 6+ innings….
Far too often it seems that on those “bad nights” the score wil be 3 or 4 to nothing in the 3rd or 4th inning….and then the other team is shut down the rest of the game…
and then Braves either can’t muster any Offense or only 2-3 runs and lose by ONE
WREN needs to find a way to get a deal done for a LEGITIMATE Power bat sooner rather than later….It could make all the difference
By Ryan
June 27, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this
DOB, do you think that FW will get a RH bat before the deadline? Bay sounds like the perfect fit, do you think it could happen? Thanks for what you do.
By flange1
June 27, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this
Chris,
My take on the Braves trading plans is that the current rotation is off limits unless another arm comes back.
I can see a Morton included in a Greineke deal but not for a position player.
By ncscoots
June 27, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this
not to mention the various brands of very real, very good Cuban cigars for sale in the tobacco shop next to this Marriott.
There will no smoking of those Dominican ropes THIS road trip, I’m guessing.
By acepotus
June 27, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this
DOB — I typically enjoy your writing, but come on, man, I expected more than the canned “he’s a pain in the clubhouse” response from you re: Barry.
As the Sabernomics post (did you even bother to read it?) points out, Sheff had a reputation as a bad clubhouse guy and there was never an issue in Atlanta. Barry costs nothing but the minimum salary, the Braves are aching in the OF, and instead of giving a thoughtful response you just toss out the old “he’s a pain in the clubhouse” garbage?
You’re entitled to the opinion that the Braves should not take a guy who hit 28 homers with a huge OPS last year for the MLB minimum, but since you write about/analyze baseball (and the Braves in particular) for a living, how about a more substantive, reasoned reply? Even if you do throw in more myspace-esque references to song lyrics while doing so?
By proeye
June 27, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this
Anyone who thinks this young pitching staff is going to hold up like it has the rest of the season is fooling themselves.
Baseball is about balance and as soon as the Braves start winning on the road and playing better against lefties, you start to not only see the starters falter but the offense will start picking up. You have to look at your level of talent. No team ever wins with a ragtag bunch of unproven players and retreads. It is truly a miracle that Bobby has kept this team together, but that’s why we love him.
I’ve been a Braves fan for 25 years and I know where this team is headed. Even if they get incredibly lucky and win the division, they won’t get far after that. Let’s be realistic here. This team needs some reconstruction and I would like to see it done this season so we can worry about 2009. It’s like trying to win a war with only half of your warriors available. Why get beat up and humiliated when you can come out swinging stronger next year?
By Efrim
June 27, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this
Cooper
For example if the Phillies get a Harden and the Braves get a Nady do you think the Braves can actually over take them?
Well, the Phillies have the third best ERA in the NL. Lets just say this, if the Phillies continue to play the way they have played, and the Braves continue to play the way they have played, the Phillies will win the division by 5-7 games. Harden/Bedard/Wolf, whoever would certainly help the Phillies and solidify their chances. I think the Phillies are still going to win the division. They are 4-11 in their last 15 because they have faced really, really good pitching. They club bad pitching, which they will face in July, August and September. Braves just don’t seem to hit much at all.
Flange1
Yes, Morton included in a package for Greinke would make a lot of sense. I just don’t think the Royals want to trade him. Braves will need a guy to pair with Hudson next year. I mean, Jurrjens and Reyes would look a lot better in the #3 and #4 spots. Anyway, as much as I think that pitching wins, a hitter is the priority. Braves just have to hope that they younger guys continue to be productive.
By TennesseePaul
June 27, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this
Thanks DOB. Hope you enjoy the Canucks. They’re a strange bunch. Don’t let the door hit you on the way oot.
One other thing about these Blue Jays that I didn’t see mentioned up above, they are a very good defensive team. They’re 5th in the Majors and 3rd in the AL. I only bring this up because it seems the Braves keep waiting for their “luck” to change… and that isn’t likely against a team with solid gloves. They’ll have to pound the hell out of the pitchers.
By flange1
June 27, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this
Acepotus,
Dude if you want Bonds talk, look at yesterday’s blog. We spent most of the day talking about signing him.
What more do you want DOB to say? He thinks it is a bad idea to sign a 44 year old outfielder whose knees are shot who has a major court case pending and who is difficult in the clubhouse, not to mention the fact that he has not played competitive baseball for 8 months and no one knows what kind of shape he is in.
Is that enough reasons?
By Murphy
June 27, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this
Bonds? Really people: Let. It. Go. It has been rehashed almost daily on this here blog! Let’s find something new to argue about.
By Gil in Mechanicsville
June 27, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRAVEHEART!!!!
By MiamiBrave
June 27, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this
All I know is to be only 4 out nearing the All-Star break, with the kind of season it’s been for the Braves, we have been extremely lucky.
That said they gotta start pickin it up, if we can go into the A-S break only out 2 or 3 we will be in it the rest of the way, if the pitching holds up the way it has.
And this season ain’t over, but the future does seem bright for the pitching staff, gotta like that, especially with the guys we got comin up through the system as well.
GO BRAVOS!
By JimD
June 27, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this
acepotus, do you read what DOB writes? Yes, he mentioned the clubhouse rep, but he also mentioned just today 2 other salient points.
First, we need a RH bat, Bonds is a lefty.
Second, no one has seen him play all year, there is no telling what kind of condition he is in. Since turning 40 he has only averaged 90 games per season - last three years.
I haven’t taken the time to look, but I wonder if some of the same ones who are clamoring for the Braves to get Bonds are some of the same ones who are griping about pinning our hopes on Smoltz, Glavine, Kotsay, and other more seasoned veterans? We can’t have it both ways folks.
flange1 I don’t look to see Morton going anywhere. Not even for Greinke, who would BTW be a nice addition but not at that price. The core for this staff for the next 3-5 yrs will be Morton, JJ, and Reyes, so those three aren’t going anywhere. They may be our new Smoltz, Glavine, Avery of the early 90s.
By RedEyedAndBlue
June 27, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this
Great blog, DOB, and a good retort to all the doubters who think we should start building for tomorrow. Particularly amazing that our starters are out-shining the likes of Webb, Johnson and co. ERA-wise, anyway.
I’d also like to shower Roger McDowell with some of the credit for the success of this staff. He’s even more responsible, I think, for the success of the young pitchers who are holding this staff together right now.
By chris
June 27, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this
Flange 1,
Agreed. Wouldn’t make a trade until they get the other arm. But I would grad a bat and not Greinke. I believe Morton is the odd man out when/if they get someone back. He could flourish as a set-up man and then move back into the rotation next year. With three two more off days coming up, I’m betting he gets skipped on Monday.
Chris from MD
By SeaAtl
June 27, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this
For all those throwing out trade ideas, si.com’s Heyman has an article up now. Pretty good, and in the end seems to think the Mets would go hard after Nady - http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/writers/jon_heyman/06/27/heyman.cclead/index.html?eref=T1
By Desperado Dave
June 27, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this
DOB, have to agree with you on this. Pitching hasn’t been the Braves problem at all. It’s been catching the ball and getting the hitters to do something more than hope for a three-run homer.
By Desperado Dave
June 27, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this
DOB, have to agree with you on this. Pitching hasn’t been the Braves problem at all. It’s been catching the ball and getting the hitters to do something more than hope for a three-run homer.
By KC
June 27, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this
proeye “No team ever wins with a ragtag bunch of unproven players and retreads.”
So I guess you were pretty down on that 91’ Braves team, huh?
Let’s time warp you back to June 27, 1991 to hear your argument against that team…
Leibrandt? Pendleton? Bream?
Come on, get real. Those guys are retreads.
Tom Glavine??? Sure, the guy is having a great year so far, but if you expect it to last, you’re fooling yourself. This is a guy with a career ERA of 4.30. And he’s on pace to pitch far more innings than he ever has before. It’s not going to last.
Steve Avery??? This guy had an ERA of 5.64 in 20 starts last year, and he’s on pace to throw at least 80 more innings than he ever has a any level.
Talk about unproven!!!
Smoltz, Justice, Gant… good looking young players, but they haven’t been through the fire yet.
And the entire bullpen is full of either young, unproven arms such as Stanton and Mercker… or retreads like Berenguer.
I’m glad they’re out of the cellar, but this team WILL NOT be in the race come September with a team full of unproven players and retreads.
You people need to face reality.
By KC
June 27, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this
Jim D: Barry Bonds transcends all the lefty/righty stuff. Have you seend his numbers against lefties?
That’s irrelevant where Barry is concerned.
What IS very relevant is the fat that the guy’s an a-hole, and would bring a media circus with him. That’s why the Braves won’t offer him a deal… not because he can’t crush lefties, cuz he can (assuming he has something left in the tank - which we’ll probably never know).
By JROCK
June 27, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Any chance of making a run at Willy Tavares? He is VERY available and may solidify the lead off spot. He has struggled but seems to be turning things around at the plate. I know we need more POP in the OF, but we could get Tavares to fill a hole for less than a proven power bat. Thoughts??
By Barry
June 27, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this
HEY DAVE!!!
Absolutely love Bon Iver … I can’t get enough of “Skinny Love.”
I gotta brag a little — I’m going to see Josh Ritter tonight performing with the Boston Symphony Orchestra here in Beantown.
Speaking of Beantown, the birthplace of the Braves, I’m expecting the Braves to get over the hump here pretty soon. French is slowly showing signs of life. With Tex heating up a bit and Kotz coming back soon, I think the Braves might be able win a few here and there and challenge for first place.
And you know the one-run losses can’t be as bad in the second half as it has been in the first. It’s just statistically impossible.
Lastly, and call me crazy, I like this starting rotation in the playoffs. They just might be young and dumb enough to look past the magnitude of each start. Remember how good Avery was in the ‘91 playoffs? I really like Jo-Jo, JJ and Jorge. Add Hudson to the mix and we have four damn good starters.
Oh well, it’s exciting. The Braves can fall apart, rebuild trial-by-fire and still compete.
GO BRAVES!!!!
I’m as excited as Chief Nocahoma hopped up on three Red Bulls.
By keylargo
June 27, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this
I thought it was decided about two weeks ago that we would sign Bonds when steroids become legal. That way Bonds could teach all the clean guys on the team how he cheated when cheating was illegal.
Jose Canseco is also going to be hire as strength and conditioning coach and Sammy Sosa will become the new hitting coach.
Until they’re legalized though, enough of this BS.
By Braint
June 27, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this
What would be the chances of swinging a deal for Alex Rios? He’s young and the Jays aren’t too happy with his production. Too expensive?
By TURTSNAP
June 27, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this
Hey KC….. “Lets do the time warp again”…. :O)
Great points in the warp as well.
By Ace
June 27, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this
Maybe it’s been discussed already - but at this point would it hurt the Braves to bring Josh Anderson back and give him a shot to lead off? Couldn’t be worse than Blanco, right?
Are the Braves showcasing BJones as trade bait? I’d take Nady as he’d be cheaper than Bay in a trade, and at least we wouldn’t face him - I seem to remember him having good luck against our guys.
By Steeledawg
June 27, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this
The Trinity Sessions, great album, one of the best of the ‘80’s.
Does the rerelease bring anything new to the table, or is it simply a money grab by a band that hasn’t had a hit in a while?
Braves just need to start getting timely hits, especially #7, and they will be fine as along as the young pitchers hold up.
By bigchiefrg
June 27, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this
How about let’s finally give McDowell some love?
By flange1
June 27, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this
JimD,
The point of my post is that Morton would not be traded for a position player, he might be traded for an upgrade in pitching.
And don’t get so consumed with JJJ, JoJo and Morton being the saviors for the future.
Remember how great Chuck and HoRam were as rookies.
Hanson is on the way and Locke, Teahran and Rohebaugh are not that far behind, so we have some talent on the way up to help.
By Cooper
June 27, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this
DOB is correct in the first move should be for a serious bat b/c if they don’t get one soon the season is over.
The OF is a offensive (and some times defensive) void of biblical proportions.
A close second is SP (#2 with short term Ace potential) and then another arm for the pen.
I think Wren will try to grab a bat well before the AS break and then get into a mini bidding war (for a SP) at or slightly before the deadline.
It is likely he folds at the high prices but given that he tried to get Haren during the off season and was snooping for SP in May (Blanton etc) I don’t think he will limit his offers to bats.
By Barry
June 27, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this
I like the move to throw Anderson in the leadoff role. The Braves need some speed. Maybe the 3-4-5 hitters will see more fastballs.
By KC
June 27, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this
Ace: Nady might be a bit cheaper in a trade… but looking to next year and beyond, Bay is a better choice.
Both Bay and Nady are under contract through 09, so if you trade for them, you’re looking as much at their value for next year as you are for the remainder of this season.
Bay is more of a pure cleanup hitter than Nady, so that would provide some insurance for the middle of the 2009 lineup, should Tex depart.
Also, if you’re looking at odds of re-signing Bay or Nady long-term… Nady’s agent is Scott Boras$ (Bay’s isn’t).
By MiamiBrave
June 27, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this
And another tidbit
the Braves (+46) are 1 of only 5 teams in the NL with positive run differentials and are only behind the Cubs and Phillies
By TennesseePaul
June 27, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this
All I know is to be only 4 out nearing the All-Star break, with the kind of season it’s been for the Braves, we have been extremely lucky.
Yes… I’ve heard though that it’s entirely the managers fault that this team isn’t in first place by a mile…
What was that I heard? Sounded like a can of something being opened.
By MVH
June 27, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this
Sign Barry Bonds!
By KC
June 27, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this
flange1: I will admit that memories of HoRam early days, and James’ performance in 06 keep me leveled off on JoJo.
And the knowledge that can’t-miss future stars sometimes do miss, keeps me level headed on Morton.
But I will say this… Morton and Jojo both have decidedly better stuff than either HoRam or James. And that certainly counts for something.
By bravesedandconfused
June 27, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this
DOB
The Braves are obviously looking at Barry and not telling you…so what are the chances they go for Sammy and Roger to complete the set? …I mean…they are available right? and even if they’re not in game shape today,I’m sure they could get that way quickly.
(I bet you’re just running to the phone to call Wren and ask him. )
By Bubba45
June 27, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this
Still amazed at the results of the Toronto series preview poll whereby the majority of voters expect the Braves to win 2 of 3 in the series. Have these people seen the Braves play over the last 2 plus years.
I’d like to see the same poll completed by the Braves players - they probably more in line with my thinking & hoping for 1 out of 3.
By David P.
June 27, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this
Yo, David … Sure seems like McDowell is doing a hell of a job with these guys. Besides Jurrjens, none of the newcomer’s stuff really sticks out to me … albeit, I haven’t had a chance to see Morton. How does his stuff compare to Jurrjens?
Also, great Cowboy Junkies tidbit … Black Keys in Atlanta in Oct.
Have fun in Toronto …
By 1957 Braves Fan
June 27, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this
There is still time enough to make it into post season if we give our pitchers some run support. We can’t afford one win only series anymore. Play to win!
By Will
June 27, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this
I about guarantee the minute the Braves start getting more timely hitting the starting pitching will go downhill again. That is how .500 baseball teams operate.
By Wiley T.
June 27, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this
Management needs to question Corky Miller’s overall production. Then hopefully he will pull a Shawn Chacon.
By Barry
June 27, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this
If the Braves sign Bonds that is a sign of the apocalypse.
By flange1
June 27, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this
KC,
I completely agree that in my mind JJJ, JoJo and Morton have more tools that Chuck or HoRam did in their rookie seasons.
I think all 3 are going to be great and I am looking forward to watching them.
I just think others need to accept that they are not proven yet and that 1 of the 3 might not be traded if a better pitcher is available.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this
Cecil, just saw your comment about 90 wins on the other blog. I just called major league baseball to check on it, and they told me 90 wins isn’t required to win the division. Just one more win than the next-best team, or, if tied, then a one-game playoff win against the other team will do it.
Just wanted to make sure they hadn’t instituted a 90-win requirement to win the division, since it only took 89 to win the NL East last season, and 85 to win the NL Central (which is about what I think it’ll take to win the East this season), closer to 85 than 90.
By MGL
June 27, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this
I agree on McDowell, but I’m sure that there are still Leo lovers that would propose that that league leading ERA could be less than 1.00 if Leo were still here.
By justdoit
June 27, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this
how about the braves trade for nady and bay and trade tex for a good young arm. nady can play 1b - not going to happen but seems pretty good to me.
By KC
June 27, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this
Will: Great. Glad to have your “guarantee”.
Figure out how to quantify that prediction statically, and I’ll be happy to put some money on the table, that is - if you’re a wagering man.
By FloridaBrave
June 27, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this
flange1,
Bad comparison, IMO. James and Ramirez never had the stuff these three have. I’m not advocating people anointing Jurrjens, Reyes, and Morton saviors, but it’s inconceivable to me why people would want to trade any one of them. Braves fans should know better than anyone that player development- especially developing pitchers- is extremely important to building and maintaining good ball clubs. The Braves have struggle din recent years because I think they got away from that emphasis a bit, and finally, the Braves have three young guys in their rotation drawing comparisons- albeit weak ones right now- to the “Young Guns” in the early 90s, and we want to break that up. And yes, I understand people want to do it for an upgrade in pitching- Greinke especially- but why Morton, when he too has proven capable of pitching at this level? Sure one could say it’s only been three starts but Greinke hasn’t exactly been a model of consistent production either, just this year becoming the pitcher many thought he could be. I wouldn’t mind adding Greinke, but I agree with DOB that it is not a necessity and I’d hope we’d at least center the deal around prospects- even if it’s our top pitching prospect in Hanson- who for all his success in the minors has not showed anything at the ML level like Jurrjens, Reyes, and to a lesser extent Morton has. But I wouldn’t trade Jurrjens, Reyes, or Morton and the more I think about it, the more prudent I think it would be to roll with Hudson/Jurrjens/Reyes/Morton/Hanson next year.
By TennesseePaul
June 27, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this
Nady is having a good year. I wouldn’t argue against it. But as for making a move, I’d be reluctant to acquire an average bat that typically fades in the second half. I’m not sure Nady would put this team over the top. His biggest asset to this team currently is his health. But I’m not sold on the idea of trading for him for that reason. I’d rather wait a bit to see if Diaz can come back healthy and functional. Otherwise, Bay would make more sense. Bay’s second half numbers combined with Teixeira’s and Francoeurs would make this a powerful offense… at least on the books.
First Half Results G AB XBH AVG OBP SLG OPS BAbip Nady 369 1269 129 .278 .334 .470 .805 .307 Bay 390 1417 178 .283 .374 .526 .901 .322 Diaz 198 517 35 .308 .333 .416 .749 .357 Second Half Results G AB XBH AVG OBP SLG OPS BAbip Nady 369 1269 53 .275 .332 .409 .742 .323 Bay 390 1417 120 .280 .382 .503 .885 .338 Diaz 151 389 38 .314 .360 .494 .854 .353 Career Totals G AB XBH AVG OBP SLG OPS BAbip Nady 590 1919 182 .277 .334 .450 .783 .312 Bay 692 2480 298 .282 .378 .517 .894 .329 Diaz 349 906 73 .310 .345 .449 .794 .355Just some food for thought…
By KC
June 27, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this
Flange1: I completely agree on all points.
By BravesFanInRockies
June 27, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this
JROCK,
Nonono to Taveras. He can run. But he can’t get on base. Even in Coors. He walked 21 times last year. He’s never walked more than 34 times in a season. He’s on the verge of being benched by the last-place Rockies because he’s killing the offense.
I’d prefer Josh Anderson to Taveras, and I’m not sure he’s much better. He’s already here, however.
You can’t steal first.
By Bobby's Cox
June 27, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this
I would NOT go after Jason Bay. He’s too inconsistent as a hitter and K’s too much. He’d be more of the same on this team that struggles when men are on base.
Check out his monthly splits.
By flange1
June 27, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this
FLBrave,
I agree with you. My original post was sent saying that I didn’t think the Braves would trade 1 of the 3 (Morton specifically) for a position player.
My position was that IF one of those guys was traded, it would only be for an upgrade (like Greinke).
I am in no way suggesting or pushing for a trade of any of these pitchers, in fact I want to keep them around, including Hanson!
Tenn Paul,
I agree, I am not on the Nady bandwagon. I just don’t think he is an upgrade over Diaz.
We have enough duplication in this organization (Blanco, Anderson) that we don’t need any more!
By Will
June 27, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
KC, Just trying as always to infuse some reality into this blog!
By TennesseePaul
June 27, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this
Wow… it finally comes up and I see a glaring problem. The first half and second half numbers are all mixed up. So here it is again… with the proper numbers.
First Half Results G AB XBH AVG OBP SLG OPS BAbip Nady 369 1269 129 .278 .334 .470 .805 .307 Bay 390 1417 178 .283 .374 .526 .901 .322 Diaz 198 517 35 .308 .333 .416 .749 .357 Second Half Results G AB XBH AVG OBP SLG OPS BAbip Nady 221 650 53 .275 .332 .409 .742 .323 Bay 302 1063 120 .280 .382 .503 .885 .338 Diaz 151 389 38 .314 .360 .494 .854 .353 Totals G AB XBH AVG OBP SLG OPS BAbip Nady 590 1919 182 .277 .334 .450 .783 .312 Bay 692 2480 298 .282 .378 .517 .894 .329 Diaz 349 906 73 .310 .345 .449 .794 .355By Lee in S GA
June 27, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this
I would NOT go after Jason Bay. He’s too inconsistent as a hitter and K’s too much.
Sounds like he would fit in perfectly.
By RC
June 27, 2008 1:36 PM | Link to this
I agree with everyone who said to give credit to Roger McDowell for our pitching performance this year. As good as Leo was at getting the most out of veteran pitchers, he never seemed to be able to develop our young pitchers in a way that didn’t shatter their confidence. Roger has done a phenomonal job this year of getting good production out of the youngsters in the rotation AND the youngsters in the bullpen. I shudder to think what would become of Manny Acosta right now if Leo was still the pitching coach (not that I’m a Manny fan, but he’s shown some signs of life lately).
By Paul in Richmond
June 27, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this
Excellent Blog - THANKS for pointing out that our problem is scoring. (I bet we win about 90% when we score 3 or more runs)
I note that Bobby Cox probably deserves most of the credit for the low era.
I am predicting a sweep of Toronto as I am seeing signs that the hitting is coming around.
By Pete H.
June 27, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this
DOB
If you’re looking for an affordable, fun place with great food after the game, try the Overdraught. It’s right down the street from the park and serves food late. Best fish and chips I ever had, and they have literally dozens of Canadian ales and beers on “draught.” I ate there after a Jays game a couple of years ago and loved it. They play Irish and alt-country type music, extremely friendly, and the food was just extraordinarily good. There’s also an Italian place and a seafood place upstairs, at considerably higher price points.
http://www.theoverdraught.ca/menu.htm
On the subject of baseball, I think we should be looking at Carlos Lee. The Stros aren’t going anywhere and if we have to give up prospects, he’s a heck of a lot scarier than Nady or Bay.
By Efrim
June 27, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this
Bay is a very good hitter, but I don’t think he is as good as some people this he is.
Florida Brave
Hudson/Jurrjens/Reyes/Morton/Hanson
If that is the case, the Braves better spend a lot on the offensive side of the ball. That doesn’t mean that pitching staff isn’t going to be good, it just means that starting pitching staff is cheap. Really cheap. Like 15 million cheap. And I really don’t want Pat Burrell or Adam Dunn on this team, so I hope we can get some offensive help elsewhere.
By KC
June 27, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this
Will: I’m not sure I understand the pessimism.
To call them a (roughly) .500 team in terms of their record right now, would be a statement of fact.
To call them a .500 team in terms of their overall makeup and ultimate potential seems a bit unfair, I think.
On the one hand, yes… the team has blow all kinds of chances by losing close game after close game.
On the other hand, should a team that’s lost Ace (or co-ace), two other starters, and its 2 best relievers, even be anywhere close to .500??
There are a LOT of positives here.
Can a team with the best ERA in the league and a lineup that includes Chipper, Tex, McCann and some other good hitters, go on a nice run in the second half?
I think they can. And frankly, I’ll be surprised if they don’t.
By RedEyedAndBlue
June 27, 2008 1:52 PM | Link to this
Not only do I think that McDowell needs some credit for the performance of the pitching staff, but so, too, does Mac. At this point in the season, I’d say Mac is our MVP.
McDowell’s true success story this year may be Jorge Campillo. Helped to resurrect this guy’s career.
By Kentavo
June 27, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this
Any thoughts of fortifying the bench (a seperate animal than finding a starting outfielder with pop) with a corner infielder with pop, so we don’t have to sub 3B with lighthitting utility guys like Gotay? Someone of the Rolen variety? Once upon a time Rolen was on the Braves radar? Would he accept another trade and role as a backup as Braves have more of a chance at post-season than Jays? I’ve said this without any knowledge of his contract and salary.
By KC
June 27, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this
Efrim: Yeah… we should have some money to spend, shouldn’t we?
The only issue is that the Braves have NEVER been the highest bidder for a major free agent, that I can think of.
They’ve never been in the business of overpaying, regardless of the ownership. Even when Ted owned the team, the Braves made competitive offers for star players, but never got silly.
When other teams are willing to make silly offers, it thins the field, even if the Braves do have the cash.
The Braves may offer Tex close to 20 mill per season for 5 years. But someone else will probably offer 22 mill for 7 years.
That kind of stuff really makes my appreciate a guy like Tim Hudson who came over here and signed a fair but reasonable extension.
By Tomahawk Matt
June 27, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this
TURTSNAP stop wasting everyone’s valuable eye movements and mouse scrollings with your “dummy” comments about firing Bobby Cox.
ASK DOB about firing Bobby Cox?… Bobby Cox is not the reason guys aren’t hitting the ball. It’s not a lack of intensity or a lack of fundamentals. If anything, it’s a simple lack of hitting TALENT.
There were several years the Braves won Divisions with a mediocre offense.
O wait… I’m sorry TURTSNAP. I forgot you’re one of those dummies that thinks making it to the playoffs several years in a row is a failure.
By the way, your name is CLEAR metaphor for your comments i.e. TURD SNAPS aka WORTHLESS GAS.
GO BRAVES!!!
By Efrim
June 27, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this
Speaking of Zack Greinke….
Ken Rosenthal:
The Royals keep getting hits on right-hander Zack Grienke; the Phillies and Brewers apparently expressed interest, and the Braves have tried to acquire Grienke at least twice in recent years. The Royals, however, remain decidedly uninterested in moving Grienke, whom they control through 2010. GM Dayton Moore is emphasizing pitching and defense; the Royals didn’t win when they had Johnny Damon, Carlos Beltran and Jermaine Dye in the late 1990s, in large part because their pitching wasn’t good enough …
By TennesseePaul
June 27, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this
Braves fans should know better than anyone that player development- especially developing pitchers- is extremely important to building and maintaining good ball clubs. The Braves have struggle din recent years because I think they got away from that emphasis a bit
Well I don’t think they got away from it. Development is certainly important for building a club but that doesn’t mean every player developed, or in the process of being developed, must and will play for the big team. Good development affords a team more “currency” when it comes to building a winning club. If you develop good players, say at Short Stop, and you develop a lot of them, you can trade some to acquire a veteran player for another position of which you aren’t currently stocked in. Likewise, if you have a point in time when 4, 5, 6, or more pitchers are all coming into their own in your system, you try and keep the best ones, or most promising and deal some of the excess to get a quality Vet. Even if that vet is a pitcher.
So I wouldn’t agree that the Team got away from that emphasis in recent years. It has been a long, long time for this team to produce some good MLB caliber pitchers, but that doesn’t mean they weren’t trying. Until recently they were winning the division leaving them with lower draft picks making it a little more difficult to acquire top talent in a draft. (Not impossible mind you, but having a top pick with our scouts would pay off more than not). And of course, as great as all these young guys are doing now, we will have to wait and see if they fulfill their potential, which gets to the next part…
the Braves have three young guys in their rotation drawing comparisons- albeit weak ones right now- to the “Young Guns” in the early 90s, and we want to break that up.
Not entirely true about “breaking it up”. There are a few more pitchers on the way that are supposed to be better than some of the guys up right now. So, moving a guy now to acquire a veteran solid pitcher, such as a Haren, though that time has passed, isn’t adverse towards building for the future with home grown talent. It’d leave at least three spots in the rotation for the home-grown pitchers to fill. And yes, it’s a bit early to compare them to Avery, Smoltz, and Glavine. But they have been promising. No doubt about that.
but why Morton, when he too has proven capable of pitching at this level? Sure one could say it’s only been three starts
Yes only three starts. In my opinion, Morton will have proven he is capable of pitching at this level after the other teams have a solid scouting report on him. At that time he’ll have to make his adjustments to continue to be successful. Until then I’m glad he’s doing well, but at the same time other teams can suffer from bravesyndrome (the ineptitude of a hitter facing a rookie call up resulting in the rookie looking dominate and/or the Braves hitters looking ridiculous).
This brings us to this part of your point Greinke hasn’t exactly been a model of consistent production either, just this year becoming the pitcher many thought he could be.
This will probably happen with some of our young pitchers as well which is why one would trade for a guy like Greinke, the assumption being that he’s already gone through the struggles and is now coming into his own. Acquiring him would leap frog the rotation over having 3 (or 4) guys in the same rotation going through the same learning curve while the team is trying to win thus reducing the number of inconsistent outing from the rotation.
That’s the theory I’ve got anyway. I could be wrong. Time will tell. But that is what a GM must think about when building a team. Can the team afford to compete this year with only one veteran and 4 guys with less than a year experience in the majors, or do we move one of those guys for a proven veteran starter?
By Rahul
June 27, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this
Paul In Richmond
When The Braves Score 3+ Runs, They are 38-20
By BravesFan79
June 27, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this
No surprise to me the team started going downhill when Bobby made the terrible roster move (ANOTHER Bad Roster move Bobby??) and let go of Pena to keep Corky. I called it when it happened! I told yall Escobar would slump for awhile and he did.
I still dont think hes back to his normal self and the production i think hes capable of when i argued so hard for him to make the team last spring training. It cost the Braves the division last year, and keeping corky might of cost them it this year.
I like Bobby as manager….but seriously someone else needs to take over who goes and who stays. Just like someone else needs to control the bullpen!
Just like i said last year….as a GM…u give Cox CRAP to work with….and man hes gonna use that guy up till the wheels fall off. Makes no sense that our pitchers hit better than our last position player.
But hey THANK GOD corkys around to play mediocure defense every 5 days! Wow what would be do without him!
Now we get to face another team rejuvinated by a new er…old manager…. great. Hopefully we wont have to face Roy Holliday. (someone ive wanted the Braves to get for years)
By geauxbraves2000
June 27, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this
Bonds? In ATL? That’s it - no soup for you - you come back - one year.
Geaux Braves!!
By AuburnBrave
June 27, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this
DOB, or whoever can answer this:
Question about players retiring. If a player retires during the season, how does that effect the teams payroll? Is said player still owed what is left of his contract, or is the contract voided and the player recieves a prorated amount based on what he was making at the time he called it a career?
Just curious, since hypothetically we’ve got a couple of guys who could be facing this situation.
By FloridaBrave
June 27, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
Efrim,
Right, I understand the argument that you can’t lean on pitching that young and expect to win but I disagree. If we can put together a good offense and bullpen, we can definitely win with that rotation. With that rotation, we could offer Tex around what the Rangers offered in 7 years $140 million but front-load the contract since the rotation is so cheap, giving him over 23-24 million the first 2-3 years of the contract and then we can pay him 16-17 million in the years where those three young guys become arbitration eligible. Tex’s history of good health might make that worth the risk.With Tex(or another big bat), a healthy Soriano, Gonzalez, Moylan next year, and another addition in both LF and the bullpen, we can win with that rotation. I firmly believe that. But as we both basically are saying, that rotation will need help from a bolstered offense and bullpen. If Tex walks that rotation doesn’t do it.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this
MVH: You sign him. 30 major league teams don’t want to, apparently. He’s all yours. Maybe for your softball team or something.
By FloridaBrave
June 27, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
Oh god, not the Pena/Escobar crap again…
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this
BravesFan, in baseball there’s a GENERAL manager over the manager. The GM makes the roster moves, usually while working with the manager. But managers, per se, don’t make roster moves. Just thought you should know that.
His name’s Frank Wren, the GM.
By TennesseePaul
June 27, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this
I would NOT go after Jason Bay. He’s too inconsistent as a hitter and K’s too much
First Half Results G AB XBH AVG OBP SLG OPS BAbip XBH+BB-K Nady 369 1269 129 .278 .334 .470 .805 .307 -36 Bay 390 1417 178 .283 .374 .526 .901 .322 24 Diaz 198 517 35 .308 .333 .416 .749 .357 -42 Second Half Results G AB XBH AVG OBP SLG OPS BAbip XBH+BB-K Nady 221 650 53 .275 .332 .409 .742 .323 -40 Bay 302 1063 120 .280 .382 .503 .885 .338 -18 Diaz 151 389 38 .314 .360 .494 .854 .353 -17 Career Totals G AB XBH AVG OBP SLG OPS BAbip XBH+BB-K Nady 590 1919 182 .277 .334 .450 .783 .312 -76 Bay 692 2480 298 .282 .378 .517 .894 .329 6 Diaz 349 906 73 .310 .345 .449 .794 .355 -59I’d say, looking at the numbers, Bay doesn’t strike out too much. He typically has more extra base hits and walks than strikeouts. He also has the better BB/K ratio of those three.
By beachcomber
June 27, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this
Carlos Lee? Ouch. Let’s just put a statue out in left field.
And speaking of the ‘Stros, having known Ed Wade for many years I seriously doubt Mr. Chacon’s version of the confrontation.
There may be better GM’s in the game but there are not many better human beings than Ed Wade.
By Alan
June 27, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this
Pitching definitely is not the problem, and Frank Wren has hinted as much in interviews. All of the young guys have been surprisingly good (and poised); the best (and oldest; “officially” 29, looks at least 10 years older) is Campillo. To me, he’s #2 in the rotation after Hudson. Offense, offense, offense — there’s the rub, folks. How about adding a relatively cheap righthand- hitting outfielder with some pop, who plays decent defense? Like Jay Payton (a Georgia guy, I believe) or Juan Rivera. There’s no way I’d go after Bay or Nady or even Tavares if it means parting with Morton or Reyes or any of the young studs in AA or A. Here’s another issue that DOB referred to earlier: Mark Teixeira, who is featured in the current issue of The Sporting News. The writer, Sean Deveney I believe, says the Braves should trade him, but then asks for what? He says the Braves (or any other team in a similar situation with a walk-year superstar) will not get anywhere near the bounty they gave up last summer, and he’s right. It’s a moot point anyway. Teixeira isn’t going anywhere this season. I’ve read elsewhere (and maybe in Deveney’s piece, too) that the Braves should offer Tex arbitration in the offseason, thereby assuring themselves draft picks as compensation. Either way, they’ll lose in the numbers game, having surrendered 5 prospects to get him from Texas.
By McFann©
June 27, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this
RedEyedAndBlue—
I’d say so, too.
By TennesseePaul
June 27, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this
DOB: He’s all yours. Maybe for your softball team or something.
I think he already ruled that out. I was going to petition the GLB to get him on the Armada squad. He’d follow in the foot prints of such greats as Ricky Henderson and Jose Canseco.
By Salty
June 27, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this
Interesting the Mets would like to have Nady back, who they traded to get Oliver Perez. Does that mean the Bravos go after LaRoche again? (I’m kidding).
Doumit would be a great acquisition, if it could at all happen. Good bat, and OF/C…nice combo. What would the Pirates want in return? Sammons and Jones/Anderson and/or…? Oh, well, one can dream, can’t one? LOL! Their GM seems to have his act together; he and Moore at KC have decided those two franchises are no longer the farm clubs of MLB! Darn it…hate when they wise up! LOL!
By TennesseePaul
June 27, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this
FloridaBrave: Front loading a Teixeira contract would certainly be the way to go. I haven’t checked recently, but the last time I ran the numbers this team was fielding a 55 million dollar club excluding the DL players. Assuming next year all the DL players are off the books, there is quite a bit of money to sign Teixeira. So it could be front loaded, or be a 15 million a year salary with a massive signing bonus that is paid over the first 3 or 4 years of the contract. I guess the risk is, if the young guys don’t pan out and turn into Angel Berroa, replacing them will be near impossible until the front loaded portion of time has passed.
By Efrim
June 27, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this
Florida Brave
That rotation, while above average, is still really young. Also, I think the Braves may very well have to part with one of the arms to fill an offensive void. They could use other prospects to do it, but I just think it would make more sense to spend some money on a starter of some sort. Braves have something like 45-50 million to spend, and I don’t think their is a free agent worth a lot of years this year. What do you think about a 3 year Jason Schmidt type deal for Ben Sheets? I’d rather spend a lot of cash, then a lot of years.
By BravesFanInRockies
June 27, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this
10Paul (1:58),
Well put.
As much fun as it was remembering the excitement of the “young guns,” it’s also true that it was no fun at all watching them get their skulls caved in in ‘89 and ‘90.
Glavine and Avery were the only ones of the five (remember Derek Lilliquist and Pete Smith? anyone?) who pitched well and often until Mad Dog arrived. Smoltz, love him as we do, was extremely inconsistent until his breakout year in ‘96.
The three kids now in the rotation could provide the foundation of something special, long term. Add Hanson, Rohrbaugh, Tehran and the potential is awesome.
But young pitchers may not pan out immediately or can take years to hit their stride. I like JJJ and JoJo for the long haul. But it’s way too soon to tell who of the bunch really are keepers.
By Cody
June 27, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this
I propose the Braves rob Detroit again, this time trade for Carlos Gullien, the LF is hitting over .300 and has pop in his bat. He will be owed around 5 million for the rest of the year, and will give the Braves someone that is consistant to hit between McCann and Francour. I say this could get done with B. Jones, C. James and one of our lower pitching prospects. Also N8 sorry for being a a* yesterday, bad day at the office.
By Cody
June 27, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this
I propose the Braves rob Detroit again, this time trade for Carlos Gullien, the LF is hitting over .300 and has pop in his bat. He will be owed around 5 million for the rest of the year, and will give the Braves someone that is consistant to hit between McCann and Francour. I say this could get done with B. Jones, C. James and one of our lower pitching prospects. Also N8 sorry for being a a* yesterday, bad day at the office.
By TURTSNAP
June 27, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this
Tomahawk Matt, who yanked your chain. If you care to review the blog I was referring to (yesterdays Mark Bradley blog on Bobby Cox), you would see that I am not one of those “dummies” that wants Cox fired. I was referring to others, most notably Lorena Bobbitt, whom I had many exchanges with yesterday.
But hey, thanks for the insult, classy!
By flange1
June 27, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this
It is interesting to see the continued belly-aching over Corky Miller.
Corky is the 25th guy on a 25 man roster.
His job is to catch every 5th day and help BMac anyway he can.
Because of the way Bobby manages, he will rarely pinch hit.
Yes his average is low.
But his defense is usually sound.
How many more games would the Braves have won if they would have had Johnny Bench in his prime as the back up to BMac, getting the same number of at bats and chances in the field?
What did you say? .75 of 1 game.
That is what I thought.
I don’t think it matters if Pena or Corky or Sammons or Johnny Bench is the back up catcher on this team, his contribution DURING THE GAMES is going to be minimal.
By braves70
June 27, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this
I am in total shock. I just checked the team statistics and saw that the Braves are 1st in the NL in team ERA and 3rd in the NL in team batting. Who are these clowns then I see every night who find new ways to lose?
By Evan
June 27, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this
I still don’t understand why people aren’t blaming the inconsistent and at sometimes just plain terrible offensive woes on the person who is paid by the team to fix that problem: TERRY PENDLETON. All other teams would have gotten rid of a hitting coach that has seen hitter’s regress rather than progress under his tenure.
By Cecil34
June 27, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this
DOB
Are you trying to be funny, Dave?
Hey, if they have to win 85, then ok, .524 baseball maybe more reasonable for this squad.
We better all hope it is 85.
By Bubba45
June 27, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this
Hey Paul in Richmond 1:37 PM
Is this the same guy pushing for the Braves to bring Sammons up earlier this year? What has happened to make you think a sweep is in the realm of possibility? Did you mean to say “swept?”
Interesting stat about 3 runs. Can anyone remember the last time the Braves scored 2 runs or less and won a game????????
By SeaAtl
June 27, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this
DOB’s 2:03 made me laugh out loud.
By FloridaBrave
June 27, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this
Efrim,
Who wouldn’t like Sheets? Yeah the injury history is there but at the same time, it’s also why he won’t get a a Zito-esque contract…which is a positive. 3 years 51 millon? Yeah, I’d do it.
By jodagr
June 27, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this
According to the Atlantic League website, the Braves have signed Camden Rivershark catcher (and former Blue Jay/Dodger Met) Jason Phillips for Richmond.
An interesting article about the process involved with the Atlantic League’s signings of risk players like Jay Gibbons, Nook Logan, and Juan Gonzalez. Some interesting quotes on John Rocker. Atlantic League Baseball News.
DOB
Any quotes from Kotsay on Tommy Hanson?
By SeaAtl
June 27, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this
Cecil34 - have you done the same calcs for the teams ahead of the Braves? Because last I checked, the Braves were only 4 games out of 1st, having played 80 games. Seems A LOT more important that some arbitrary winning percentage……
By SoWeGa Fanatic
June 27, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this
OK, all kidding aside, why IS Corky Miller still here?
By RedEyedAndBlue
June 27, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this
MCFann -
Nice to see you finally got your trademark approved. (and also, please don’t sue.).
BravesFanInRockies -
If by 9 Complete Games and 3 SHO in 1992, you mean Smoltz was inconsistent - well, you need some edumuhcating.
By the way, he was 12-11 with an under-3.00 ERA in 1989. For the ‘89 Braves!! Not good enough? Well he pitched over two hundred innings five straight seasons until his injury in ‘94 (a principal reason the Braves were behind in the standings at the time of the strike.).
Oh, and he was an All-Star three season btw 1989 and 1996, too. But I guess consistency would’ve been every season?
Smoltzie’s smoke made Glavine/Avery and Maddux’s change-up more effective, imo.
Dude was The Man. Do you not remember Game 7 at the MetroDome?!
By Cecil34
June 27, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this
DOB
Were you sitting next to a dark haired girl in the pressbox Wednesday?
I was over in the Lexus level on the first base side….
By TennesseePaul
June 27, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this
Can anyone remember the last time the Braves scored 2 runs or less and won a game????????
First column is the record by runs scored (RS). Second is the record by run differential (RD), that is, winning or losing by the given number of runs. Apparently they won once when scoring only 2 runs. Just as frightening as the 1-run game record.
By Cecil34
June 27, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
SeaAtl
Settle down SA, you are right on paper - 4 games out looks extremely significant.
However, this is a mirage because:
a. this division’s parity is creating the illusion of competitiveness and team well-being,
b. The Braves have found ways to lose games that they should not lose based upon their talent and opposition,
c. The injury factor, which may or may not continue.
However, all this being documented for the first half, there is definate hope that the second half will be radically different.
For that to happen, the team must hit better. I am satisfied that we have the pitching to play better than even .524 baseball.
It may require a trade for another bat though - if Jeff cannot pick it up.
By Efrim
June 27, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this
Florida Brave
Who wouldn’t like Sheets? Yeah the injury history is there but at the same time, it’s also why he won’t get a a Zito-esque contract…which is a positive. 3 years 51 millon? Yeah, I’d do it.
His injury history scares me to death, but I agree. If the Braves only have 55 million under contract for next season, why not throw 17 per for 3 years at Sheets? That money should be off of the books after 2011 when Francoeur(don’t laugh)I mean, they have to spend the money somewhere and I have grown tired of trading prospects year in and year out. Keep those prospects for the right deal. A deal like the D Backs made for Haren.
By 22oz
June 27, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this
I think the backup catcher role will become more and more of an issue as the season goes on. McCann will not be able to continue playing as much as he has. I was surprised to see him catch on Wednesday, which was his second day game after a night game in four days. It makes too much sense to bring up Sammons. Its not like they’re grooming him to take over for McCann, he’s not gonna be an everyday catcher for the Braves.
By Cecil34
June 27, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this
Note:
Whether it is between 85 and 90 wins, our division winner will be in that window - and I am counting on the Braves in the second half to be that team and tear those female nags apart. The Mess too.
Yes, I can be optimistic too.
By Kyle
June 27, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this
Anyone else thing DOB is a little moody today? We should buy him a new CD or something, make him feel better!
By Chop Chop
June 27, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this
The Braves are 1-21 when scoring 2 runs or less. Most teams stink (or are shockingly bad) when they score two runs or less.
That’s right. A team with a 3.69 ERA needs to do better than scoring only two runs a game.
10Paul,
Here’s a more interesting stat that I’d like for you (or someone else) to look up:
How many times have the Braves blown a late lead (let’s call a “late lead” from the 7th inning on) during the ML-record one-run loss on the road streak?
We all know the Braves have come back a few times only to lose by one run on the road, but how many times have they actually blown a lead late and lost by that damned one run on the road?
By MGL
June 27, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this
“By Cecil34
June 27, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this
DOB
Were you sitting next to a dark haired girl in the pressbox Wednesday?
I was over in the Lexus level on the first base side….”
Cecil, if she was a big girl, might have been Mark Bowman in drag.
By Alan
June 27, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this
Earlier when I mentioned the possibility of acquiring Jay Payton from the Orioles, I should have added he could be this year’s Mike Devereaux - who also came from the Orioles, I’m pretty sure, and sparked the Braves in ‘95, capped by earning the NLCS MVP that year. The Braves do have a realistic chance this season, despite the injuries and the inconsistent play. The reason is simple: The NL East is mediocre, and frankly so is the whole league. It’s up for grabs, folks. Mediocrity can pay off. Just two short years ago, the Cardinals won it all and they won a grand total of 83 games during the regular season. I can’t see any team winning 90 games in the East this season.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
Kyle, I was just upset at the time because I was on the phone with these T-Mobile people trying to get them to explain to me how to get my voice messages while in Canada. They’re totally screwed; or rather, I am because they are.
Anyway … I’m better now. Sorry I snapped at a few of you.
By Efrim
June 27, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this
Florida Brave
Meant to add in Kelly Johnson in there as well. He will be a free agent after 2011 too. I think.
By jim
June 27, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this
Here is the lineup I would like to see tonight: Blanco, cf; Yunel, ss; KJ, 2b; Tex, 1b; McCann, c; Chipper, dh; B. Jones/Norton, lf; 643, rf; Gotay 3b.
My only reason for suggesting Chipper should bat so low in the order is to preserve his health by minimizing the chances of his re-injuring the quad running the bases. Scoring from 2nd on a single or trying to score from 1st on a double have been the occasions that have caused the quad to flare up in the recent past — not playing in the field, although the quad limits his range and exposes him to situations like charging bunts and toppers. Batting him 6th provides an opportunity for him to bat when one of the players from KJ-McCann is on base and possible in scoring position, but minimizes the chances that he will have to run hard because of the players behind him (JF) getting run-scoring hits. It also puts him behind McCann in the lineup which means he could be on base when there is only opportunity to advance one base at a time. I hold my breath that Chipper stays healthy through the Toronto series and is able to return full-time for Philly!
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this
Cecil, yes, I was sitting next to Carroll at the start of the game. She left early.
By Efrim
June 27, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this
Mike Pelfrey is, at best, a back of the rotation starter. How anyone could of thought different while he was in college is beyond me. Did he have a third pitch or something in college? No one swings at the slider he throws. He has given up 100 hits in 84 innings and his BB/K ratio is 39/47. A #4 starter, at best.
By buzzdeadwax
June 27, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
BravesFanInRockies: Here are Smoltz’ ERA+ from 88-95: 67,124,104,103,129,112,102,134. He was an All-Star three times. He might not have been as good as he was in 96, but he was certainly better than the league average every single year from 89-95. If JJ, JoJo, and C-Mo are that inconsistent over the next seven seasons, I think we are going to see a lot of winning baseball in that stretch.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this
Jim, where is Corky in your lineup?
By NoOrdinaryRabbit
June 27, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this
BravesFan79 You really think our backup catcher is the key to winning? Seriously? 150 PAs from the backup catcher is going to make or break the team?
By jim
June 27, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this
Corky IS the 25th man on this team (except when Stockman was here), but his negative contribution is not only is low average, but the natural reluctance to rest McCann more frequently because of not having an adequate replacement. The last time the Braves played the Mets, the Mets announcers gave the stats for McCann when he played in a day game after a night game. I don’t remember them specifically, but they were substantially below his overall stats. Wednesday’s performance may reinforce the truth behind these figures. If McCann does not get more rest, his performance is likely to tail off during the last two months of the season. Losing McCann’s bat in this way would offset any addition to the offense that a Bay etc. could provide. I think an adequate backup catcher is as high a priority as a right handed hitting left fielder. (Why did the Braves sell Sal Fasano to the Indians when he might have been a better option than Corky?) Heck, if evaluated on defense alone, McCann would probably be in the second half of the catcher rankings in the NL. If the first string catcher is no great defensive whiz, why is it so important that the second-string catcher be one?
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this
jodagr, I’m just headed to clubhouse now. but kotsay’s not even here, so won’t be asking him about hanson until i get back to atlanta (not going to call him to ask him about hanson, not an urgent sitatuation, if you know what I mean)
By BravesFanInRockies
June 27, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this
buzzdeadwax,
Did you watch the Braves back then? I did all the time. Smoltz was occasionally brilliant but always erratic. (He also made the All-Star team in 1990 because he was the only good player on an awful team and the league forced the Braves to send somebody.)
The constant question about him was when would he put it together? Million-dollar arm, 50-cent head, that sort of thing.
In hindsight we can appreciate how wonderful his career has been, and how lights-out he was as a starter and a closer when healthy. But before ‘96, there was no indication that he would ever be the best pitcher on that staff, let alone one of the best in the game.
By KC
June 27, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
I really hate to be put in a position of pulling for the Yankees… but they’re playing the Mets right now (up 4-3 on the Mutts).
Boy, it’d be nice to see a Mets loss and a Phillies loss today (coupled with a Braves win).
By Chop Chop
June 27, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Here’s my lineup for tonight’s game…
Corky - CF
McCann - SS
Gotay - 1B
Francoeur - C
Infante - LF
Blanco - DH
Chipper - RF
Norton - 3B
Tex - 3B
By kirknga
June 27, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this
DOB
I say you are right about the prioritization of needs as it stands at the end of June.
I am one of those who continue to call for the Braves to acquire CC Sabathia.Unless you already have 3 Cy Young winners in your rotation, there is hardly ever a bad time to pick up one.
It was Cy Young pitching that saw the Braves dominate through their streak and I’d like to see that formula repeated.
I submit to you that the Braves most glaring need on offense is the lack of timely hitting. That said I agree that another right-hand bat that can help against left-handers would be nice.
Uh, can we possibly have both?
By Bobby's Cox
June 27, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this
No on Bay, yes on Nady.
If the braves get , they try to get Pittsburg to throw Damaso Marte in that package as well.
The braves need role players, not another strikeout prone HR threat.
By Texas Brave
June 27, 2008 3:54 PM | Link to this
After Thursday’s day off with tomorrow’s day game after a night game, do you still rest McCann? Perhaps so since the next day after a night game is six days away.
By Chop Chop
June 27, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this
Some may ask why I have both Norton and Tex listed as playing 3B. Well, I’ll have Norton play even with the bag. Tex will play in shallow left field to take care of any balls that get by Norton.
I think we can trust McCann to cover the entire middle of the diamond as a shortstop. He is a soon-to-be three-time All-Star. He can do it all.
By jim
June 27, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this
On the last blog there was concern about Teheran’s health after being removed after 2 innings. Is there any more information about his condition? Also, Evarts has not pitched a low-A since the beginning of MY and Rohrbaugh has not pitched since his last (bad) start. Is there any information on the condition of these prospects?
By Erin
June 27, 2008 3:59 PM | Link to this
So we need both Norton and Tex at 3B? Not saying much for the defense…. (Not that much should be said for it recently.)
By woogidy
June 27, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this
To all: I agree wholeheartedly with the Sabernomics article about the State of Turner Field. I also think the Braves should go get Bonds. We would hate him until he hit 18-20 homers with 55 walks with a .400 OBP. Hey and Didn’t Jesse Jackson meet with JS last year ‘bout this time and ask hime why no African-Americans are on the roster?(until the recently added Brandon Jones, there still weren’t, and I have considered that to be a possibility as to why he is at the big league level, and not Josh Anderson, but that is all besides the point)
Oh and I’ve been meaning to ask, DOB I know someone who works for a prominent foot and ankle specialist in the ATL area, and she told me a Braves player(his representative) called to get an appointment for an ankle injury, but wanted to keep it from the team. The doctor was out of town so he didn’t come in. Is this a common occurance or is this kind of strange, and who could it be (Frenchy?) ?
By RedEyedAndBlue
June 27, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this
BravesFaninRockies. Most of us watched the Braves in the 90s (and 80s for that matter). Agreed that Smoltz was more of a headcase pre-1991, when he started working with Jack Llewellyn. Dude went 12-2 after he started working with shrink that season. And had one of the best losses of all-time in the World Series. If you didn’t see Smoltz’ potential for greatness b/f 1996, that’s your problem. His teammates, coaches, buzzdeadwax and I surely did.
By Efrim
June 27, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this
Nady wouldn’t cost as much as Bay(although he isn’t as good), and I’m not sure you want to sign the guy long term anyway.
By Dack Jerrick
June 27, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this
Anybody suggesting Barry Bonds to the Braves should throw that crack pipe down. Do it now! He is a known cancer in the lockerroom. Never been on a winning team. Worst idea of the year. Maybe the decade.
By Tomahawk Matt
June 27, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this
TURTSNAP I send you my most heartfelt apologies. Sorry I overreacted. I just see “fire Bobby Cox” and I turn into the HULK. I attacked Lorena Bobbidiot myself yesterday. I’m glad to know you support Mr. Cox and I promise to have your back from now on.
It was insane to read how many people actually think that way about Bobby. Someone that is clearly one of the best in the business still. By comparison, no one is asking for Tony LaRussa to be fired. No one but Steinkbrenner wanted Joe Torre gone.
Maybe TURTSNAP is like a turtle snapping? Peace be with you TURTSNAP!
But you’re right. Classy I am not!
BRAVES FAN I AM!
GO BRAVES!!!!
By buzzdeadwax
June 27, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this
BFIR: Yes, I watched them a lot in those days. I remember the “knock” on Smoltz being that he’d find a way to give up a run and blow a lead, even though he had great stuff. In hindsight, I realize that if a pitcher consistently gives a team a good chance to win - e.g., 6+ innings and 3- runs - it’s the fault of the offense when the pitcher is unsuccessful. You can only ask the pitcher to do his job, which is to give the team a chance to win - not pitch a shutout every time. I think that’s what the announcers expected of him, so they rambled on about inconsistency. My larger point is, I would hope that the new “Big 3” performs as well over the next seven years as Smoltz did from 89-95. I’m sure we can all agree on that.
By stan
June 27, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this
DOB… Love the “local color” in your blog. Sometimes the most interesting thing about travel is not your primary destination, but rather what’s going on around the game. Cowboy Junkies did an awesome cover of the Velvet Underground’s “Sweet Jane.” Thanks for the tidbit. Enjoy Oh Canada! SC
By N8
June 27, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this
cody
“Also N8 sorry for being a a yesterday, bad day at the office.”*
Don’t worry about it dude. I had a LONG BORING day at my office, and with the fam out of town, I blogged more than any human should have. Was just enjoying the back and forth of an “off day” yesterday.
Keep in mind, 99.9 percent of my blogs (even when it appears I’m attacking somebody), are in good fun.
I appreciate and accept your apology. I too apologize for making it more personal than it should have been.
At the end of the day, we’re ALL Braves fans with different ideas of HOW the team should be run, WHO should be running it, and WHO should be on the field. But ultimately, we all want the same thing…..Braves victories.
On a side note, I’m staying the hell out of the Barry Bonds talk today, but it’s nice to see other people still arguing about it. LOL!
By Cooper
June 27, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this
I would take Milton Bradley over Bonds. He is a hot head but not a cold, self centered dude who ignores his team mates and fans.
Bradley can swat, play a decent LF and is only 29.
His knee and noodle were in question going into this spring. The knee seems fine, the noodle is still a little hot tempered BC and TP can handle that aspect.
Texas needs pitching and we have prospects in the minors to offer up.
CJames, Stockman, quality pitching prospect, BJones for Milton. If needed toss in JAnderson.
By flange1
June 27, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
Chop Chop,
That is the best line up that I have ever seen.
Is Smoltz going to pitch left handed?
By Crazy Stats Katz
June 27, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this
Oh and I’ve been meaning to ask, DOB I know someone who works for a prominent foot and ankle specialist in the ATL area, and she told me a Braves player(his representative) called to get an appointment for an ankle injury, but wanted to keep it from the team. The doctor was out of town so he didn’t come in. Is this a common occurance or is this kind of strange, and who could it be (Frenchy?)?
Well, some assistant just got fired and her boss not hired. Way to go! You’re a smooth operator. Just had to go all TMZ, didn’t ya? Hope you help her pay her bills for the next few months.
By Tomahawk Matt
June 27, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this
Wow I’m getting all teary-eyed. I apologized to TURTSNAP. N8 accepts cody’s apology. N8 is right on the money. Can’t we all get along?
BRAVES FANS UNITE UNDER THE GREAT AND MIGHTY DOB - KING OF PRINT AND RADIO GUESTS.
GO JAIR!!! GO BRAVES!!!
By BBFCFM
June 27, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this
Dack JerrickI assume you meant to say Bonds has never been on a WS winning team right? otherwise you’re wrong.
And to all, Bay or Nady (or Bay AND Nady as some have ridiculously suggested) ain’t gonna do it for this team.
Do i necessarily have an answer? Nope. but some pretty good players trying to fill a weak spot are not going to cut it. We need a superstar out there.
I would say go after Holliday, but as we all know, his production away from coors is a bit different than it is at coors.
I heard a Carlos Lee suggestion, and at 277 17 dingers and 59 rbis…that aint bad. I dunno what it would take to get him and he might have a no trade, but I think it’s better than Nady or Bay.
Surprisingly, bays numbers at 287 15 and 41 aren’t that far off of Lee’s and with better avg.
Therefore After typing I am reconsidering my stance, but am still not gushing over the possibility of acquiring bay.
The point is, believe it or not, is that Bonds played on winning teams. he just never won the world series- but he’s been there.
By TURTSNAP
June 27, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this
Tomahawk Matt… Cool, yep, I thought you were assisting in my “discussions” with the Bobbitt. Good to know we support the same cause, because the insanity that is the Bobby Bashers is just unreal to me.
Long story on the Turtsnap id, but you are on the right page with the snapping turtle. I used to work at Snapper Power Tools in McDonough GA, and their logo was the snapping turtle.
By Jason
June 27, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
DOB, two questions for you, one baseball related, one music related.
1.) Have you heard any reasoning behind the Braves removing Teheran after 2 innings in Danville last week? and
2.) Have you had a chance to check out the new Hold Steady Album Stay Positive? Since we agree wholeheartedly on Boxer, I thought you may want to give this a spin or two.
Thanks!
By Chop Chop
June 27, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
flange1,
Smoltz is on the DL and won’t be available to pitch left-handed. However, Yunel Escobar will be in the bullpen tonight. I plan to use Jeff Bennett as a late-inning defensive replacement for Francoeur at catcher. The stolen base attempts will keep his arm loose. We wouldn’t want that arm to tighten up due to inactivity.
By flange1
June 27, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
Chop x2,
That is even a better plan.
Any chance we can activate Bobby Dews to catch?
By BravesFanInRockies
June 27, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this
buzzdeadwax,
Amen to the sentiment about the new version of the Big Three.
I’m not sure it’ll be these three. (What about Hanson, Rohrbaugh, Tehran, others?)
But whoever’s around to anchor the rotation, we can hope they’ll compare well with the studs of the ’90s.
By Chop Chop
June 27, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this
The Mets now lead the Yanks 11-4.
Carlos Delgado has 6 RBI, including a grand slam.
By N8
June 27, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this
Dack Jerrick
“Anybody suggesting Barry Bonds to the Braves should throw that crack pipe down. Do it now! He is a known cancer in the lockerroom. Never been on a winning team. Worst idea of the year. Maybe the decade.”
OK. You suckered me in. Though I won’t discuss the Braves signing him.
Really? Bonds NEVER played on a winning team? Dude, all you had to do was leave that line out, and you would have made a strong point. Instead, you tied your credibility to the end of a bottle-rocket (4th of July is almost here), and lit the fuse.
In other words, your credibility went bye bye.
Nice try though.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
First, why the cheap-shot comment regarding soccer? Please please please tell me you’re not one of those dumba$$ rednecks that can’t stand soccerIlliniBrave
No, I’m a dumba$$ redneck who is ambivalent toward soccer, only because I don’t have an appreciation for it because I didn’t grow up playing or watching it. But I do know it’s a great sport.
By Chop Chop
June 27, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
flange1,
Dewsy isn’t as quick behind the plate as he used to be. It’s a real shame, too. Christy Mathewson said that Dewsy was the best backstop he ever twirled a fadeaway to.
By jim
June 27, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this
I expect that some of the mock lineups and sarcastic comments relate to my suggestion to bat Chipper 6th during this series in Toronto. I realize that under normal circumstances it is either the height of stupidity or borderline treason to suggest such a thing, but given the fragile condition of his quad, I think it is essential that we minimize the chances of re-aggravating the injury. Batting him 6th lessens the opportunities he may have to try to score from 2b yet provides more opportunities for him to advance runners that have the best obp in the lineup. I’m assuming that the bottom of the lineup (Norton/B.Jones, JF, Gotay/Blanco) will hit with the consistency they have shown over the recent past. If Chipper gets on base, he must run very cautiously. It might take more than 2 hits to score him from first base. The chances of getting 2 hits after a runner reaches is much higher in this lineup from 3-6 (KJ-Chipper) than it is from 7-9 (Norton/BJ-Gotay). If the lineup is structured solely on how it hits, then this is not the best arrangement. If it is structured on how well it plays (hits, runs, and reduces exposure to injury), then this lineup is a reasonable suggestion.
I only offer this as a way I would structure the lineup to reduce the vulnerability of Chipper to further injury. I have no doubt that Bobby will pencil in Chipper in his usual 3-spot.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this
OK, here’s the MEDICAL UPDATES:
The short version: Braves are going with skeleton crew tonight, because neither Chipper, Infante nor Escobar is ready to play. None of them.
They hope to avoid DL with all, but if they were playing an NL game today they’d have had to DL someone and bring up a player.
They hope to avoid doing that, since they think at least one of these guys will be ready to play in the next couple days. But it’s not certain.
Chipper said he’s made a lot of progress in five or six days, but still isn’t ready to, say, beat out a double-play grounder or score from second on a single, that kind of thing. Day-to-day with him, like it is with the other two.
Infante’s doing better, might be ready to play tomorrow.
Escobar’s reaction wasn’t good when asked if he’s doing better. Gave it the so-so universal sign with his hand.
By N8
June 27, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this
Dack JerrickI
For got to add this at the end of my last post to you.
Since 1991 (17 seasons), Bonds was on 6 losing teams.
Bonds WOULD HAVE a WS win if the baseball gods wouldn’t have punished Dusty Baker for giving the “game ball” to Russ Ortiz when taking him out of the game that the Angels came back in.
Let’s not forget that by calling Bonds a loser in the playoffs, you’re taking much of the “credit” away from the Braves pitchers for handling him, VanSlyke and Bonilla in the 91 & 92 playoffs (which of course the Pirates would have made the 92 WS had it not been for Jose Lind’s error in the bottom of the 9th in game 7 of the 92 NLCS).
That being said, it was Bonds’ “17 hopper” to the plate that allowed the slowest MLB player in Sid Bream to score the winning run. LOL! But it should have never come to that.
Saying he’s never been on a winning team is silly. If MEANT to say that he never won a WS, then you might be on to something. But neither has Andruw Jones, and Chipper, Maddux, Glavine and Smoltz have only won ONE.
Is that the “fine line” you’re treading on, when determining who WAS a great player or not?
Dangerous territory dude. You’re better off attacking his character. That’s NOT up for debate.
By TennesseePaul
June 27, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this
The braves need role players, not another strikeout prone HR threat.
You keep saying that but it doesn’t really work out that way. Bay walks more often than Nady (1 out of 8 plate appearances vs 1 out of 17 plate appearances. Nady strikes out about 3 times for every walk, Bay only 2 times per walk. Bay hits for a higher average and a much higher power, and the on base percentage isn’t close either. Nady on the other hand has stuck out more times than he has gotten a walk and and extra base hit. Bay has 6 more walks and extra base hits than strike outs, Nady has struck out 76 times over the extra base plus walks.
Sure the sum total over the career is higher, but Bay has played more than Nady, nearly 40% more than Nady. Bay is the better player and if history holds true, he’ll perform better in the second half than in the first.
In the second half Nady’s strike out rate jumps up and his power disappears. We’d be getting him right when he starts to stink.
Bay has a career OPS of .894, Nady has an OPS of .783. It’s over 110 points worse than Bay coupled with higher strikeout rates and lower walk rates and less power.
The only reason I could see for trading for a fading Nady is he’d be cheaper than Bay. But I’d rather not buy a cheap product and stick with what we have.
By DrHoo
June 27, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB, nice blog today. One point to consider - it’s one thing to make the playoffs with 4 rookies pitching well in the rotation, it’s quite another thing to win in the playoffs without some experience. I agree with the premise that the offense is the problem at present, but building a team that can win a playoff series this year will likely require either a return to dominance of Hampton or Glavine (haha) or a deal for an experienced pitcher (a short term lease is fine). And I want to win if we get there, so I’m not content with the rookie solution long term.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this
Yes, that means NO BENCH tonight, for all intents and purposes. Just Corky.
However, Chipper can pinch-hit like he has done, and Escobar (left shoulder) can play some defense if needed in the last innings.
Infante, they want to avoid using tonight, but that hammy wasn’t pulled badly.
By jbutler
June 27, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this
Chop/Chop Hilarious. Hey - I’m available to grab a seat on the bench tonight to sub for BC. I look good in the Braves colors, so we’d be good to go.
Wayne/UT Just got back from a great vaca in your neck of the woods. Provo Canyon/Sundance are gorgeous…Downtown SLC is quite enamoured with retired Jazz street names!! I hope a title will come your way soon….
All the Holliday wishers out there…ain’t gonna happen. Management loves him/great player/character guy - team is still up/down but can get red hot overnight. And the Rox aren’t leary of Boras like said Braves GM.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this
Jason, I didn’t know that new Hold Steady album was out yet. I’ll definitely get that one; great band.
Haven’t heard anything about Teheran. Forgot to ask (got a couple other more pressing matters here, as you can imagine).
By Efrim
June 27, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this
Wow. Very suprised that Escobar can’t play tonight. It amazes me how many injuries this team has had this year. I am guessing the lineup is:
Blanco
Gotay
Johnson
Teixeira
McCann
Norton
Francoeur
Jones
Lillibridge
I really hope this team is healthy for the Philly series. Braves need to finish out the break playing good baseball.
By N8
June 27, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this
DOB
I’ve got a question that you need to find the answer to while your up in the attic” of the US.
Do Canadians refer to Canadian Bacon as just bacon? Or do they call it what it is……ham?
I’m disappointed in your song selection. It would have been the PERFECT time to break out some MacKenzie Brothers lyrics, not?
“Coo coo coo coo…..Beauty, eh?”
By Ramblin
June 27, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this
KC agree on Bay. He would be better in long run, also like Holliday. Just Setting on the dock of the Bay. Its great to just dream…
By JimD
June 27, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this
I agree that I would generally prefer Bay to Nady, however 2 things about Nady make it interesting:
1 - he wears out the Braves, it would be nice to have him on our side for a change, and
2 - he also can play 1B, providing some insurance for Tex. Of course Infante, Norton, and when he comes back Prado (LOL) can too.
So either one would have benefits, again as long as we don’t give up too much.
By NCBravesFan
June 27, 2008 5:12 PM | Link to this
I’d say yes to Bay or Lee. No to Nady or Holliday because of their agents and Holliday’s home/road splits. He’s good, damn good, but he just isn’t the same guy away from Coor’s.
By Waive Corky Yesterday
June 27, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this
No one can figure out why Corky Miller is still here. He doesn’t hit, he doesn’t play great defense…he doesn’t do anything. What a complete waste of space. I honestly feel sorry for Sammons. Sammons has to rot in the minors while this worthless bum takes up a space because the team just needs an old no-hit fart every season for “veteran presence”…something just made up by useless veterans to keep their sorry behinds on gullible teams’ rosters.
For Pete’s sake, I think just about everyone here would rather see Campillo or Reyes at the plate in a game-winning situation, like what we saw a couple of nights ago, over Corky Miller. I know I do. That tells you something.
If Corky starts tonight, at least let McCann DH. Corky “should” bat ninth, even in the NL…wait scratch that, he should NEVER bat because he is completely, utterly, 100% horrible.
By ernesto
June 27, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this
flange 1, re: your 2:28 post about the Corky Miller hataz - you obviously missed the game the other night that ended with Corky and the bases loaded.
And don’t care that every 5th day we’re giving up 3 or 4 outs for a guy who is hitting .100.
Or that his stellar D has so far, IMO, has been pretty “eh”.
I don’t see what’s wrong for asking that every guy on a 25 man roster be a contributor - or at least a valuable role player.
Right now, he’s just a guy who owns catcher’s gear and hits worse than a pitcher.
By JimD
June 27, 2008 5:21 PM | Link to this
One more thing on Bay vs. Nady …
Nady primarily plays RF (375 games) and hasn’t played much LF, only 54 times. He has played 1B more than that (79). He even played 3 games w/ SD at 3B in 2006 handling 6 chances with no errors (all assists). But he’s an athlete. No doubt he could play LF. And he could spell Francouer in RF.
Bay on the other hand has played almost exclusively in LF, although he has a few appearances in CF (40) and 1 in RF.
So, you want cheaper and more versatile, but with a smidge less pop - go for Nady. You want more pop and willing to pay little more and have him only play LF then Bay is your man.
By Interested Observer
June 27, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this
Man, if anyone else gets hurt today things could get very interesting. I wonder if Jo Jo has ever taken any ground balls in the infield?
By Crazy Stats Katz
June 27, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this
The braves need role players, not another strikeout prone HR threat.
Actually, the Braves badly need a home run threat. The best way to score runs is to hit lots of solo homers, get men into scoring position and execute with RISP.
They’re actually getting runners into scoring position about as well as they have in any of the past 20 seasons. They’re just not executing with RISP (mostly Frenchy’s fault). But they’re also not getting enough homers with RISP. The Braves are also way down in solo homers.
They’re on pace to score 100 less runs than 2006 because:
(1) They are on pace to hit 50 less solo homers than they did in 2006. That’s 50 less runs right there; and
(2) They are on pace to hit 13 less homers and 31 less doubles with RISP than they did in 2006. There’s the other 50 missing runs
They need more power.
By Ramblin
June 27, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this
N8- Coo coo coo coo…That sounds like Sugarland.
By Bobby's Cox
June 27, 2008 5:27 PM | Link to this
Last year adding power didn’t help.
This year adding power won’t help.
The team is 1st in pitching.
The team is 3rd in hitting.
The team is 2 games under .500
Jason Bay with RISP in 2008: .220
2 out RISP: .190
Career RISP: .282
Career 2 out RISP: .266
Career LATE & CLOSE: .219
This year late & close: .282
Jason Bay has played in 76 Ballgames this year. He has 35 XBH. Just about half of those games (37) have experienced late & close situations. Bay only has 5 XBH in those situations in 37 AB (56 PA). 30 of Bays 35 XHB have come in non- close & late situations.
Xavier with RISP in 2008: .336
RISP 2 out: .345
Career RISP: .263
Career 2 out RISP: .269
Career LATE & CLOSE: .267
This year late & close: .326
Bay and Nady are the same age. Bay has always been a .280 power hitter. Nady however looks like he’s turned the corner of being a nice veteran bat. In late & close situations, Nady has only two more XBH than Bay (7), but he has more RBI in those situation 16, than bay’s 8, in 9 less AB’s.
Obviously either one is a more complete player than what we have. But i’d rather have the the more clutch hitter with better defense. That would be Nady, not Jason Bay.
By Robin
June 27, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this
Just watched Nick Swisher serve up a granny to the Cubs.
Man, what I would give for us to hit one of those sometime soon …
…ok, a bases loaded double
…hell, a bases loaded single then!
Anything with the sacks jacked! :(
By N8
June 27, 2008 5:30 PM | Link to this
Leave it to me to be an (ahem) “voice of reason”.
But doesn’t it say a LOT about how the REST of the line-up and the every-day players abilities and struggles, when the “gripe of the day” is Corky Miller?
9 out of 10 times it doesn’t matter who the backup catcher is. Essentially EVERY team has a guy on the 25 man roster (be it a utility guy, a backup catcher, and emergency reliever that never gets used, etc…), that plays little to NO ROLE.
The fact that it MATTERS so much what our backup catcher does, is amusing. It shows how far down the “depth chart” this team is in general, and how bad the guys that were being counted on to contribute, are struggling.
Believe me. I’m right there wondering WHY ON EARTH Miller is on this team, much less always seems to be the guy “on the spot” late in games, but COME ON.
This team has FAR GREATER issues than Corky Miller. In fact, what it also shows is how GREAT McCann is. Most teams wouldn’t notice the drop-off from the starting catcher to the backup in terms of offensive ability.
Just my two cents.
By Efrim
June 27, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this
2 Home runs and 9 RBI for Carlos Delgado….
By Chop Chop
June 27, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this
15-5 lead for the Mets over the Yanks.
Carlos Delgado has 2 HR and 9 RBI in the game.
I guess he decided to “progress to the mean” today.
By TennesseePaul
June 27, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this
1 - he wears out the Braves, it would be nice to have him on our side for a change
Well, that may be the case, but the Braves don’t have to face him the rest of the season so at this point it’s a non-issue. And Just to get him to avoid him in 7 games next season really isn’t worth it either.
By Bobby's Cox
June 27, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this
Rich Harden Yesterday:
8IP, W, 0 Runs, 2 H, 1 B, 11 K.
Last 5 starts:
32.1 IP, 2 W, 1.67 ERA, 0.928 WHIP, 42 K’s
26 Years Old.
Just saying….
By Bobby's Cox
June 27, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this
They’re actually getting runners into scoring position about as well as they have in any of the past 20 seasons. They’re just not executing with RISP Crazy Stats Katz
If you’re going to criticize my posts for saying that the braves should go after Nady instead of Bay, then do your research.
Actually, I did it for you if you want to read my last post.
If the braves problem, just like you said, is not getting runners on, it’s bringing them home, then why would you rather have Bay over Nady?
I would think a blogger named Crazy Stats Katz would do their homework. Obviously, the best player would be the one that actually knocks in the runners in that are on base. Nady has done that more successfully than Bay.
If you want another player that drives in runs like Tex, yet you scratch your head as to where all those RBI’s are accounted for, like Tex, then Bay is the player for you.
By Efrim
June 27, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this
I’d rather have Nady because he’ll come cheaper. Much cheaper. There is no need to sign Nady long term. Nady should cost more than a couple of B prospects. In fact, how about Brandon Jones and one of the lefties in Rome. Maybe Chad Rodgers? Not sure if that would be enough, but maybe.
By Texas Brave
June 27, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this
Efrim how about
B. Jones
KJ
McCann
Tex
Blanco
Francoeur
Gotay
Norton
Lillibridge
Let’s put our better hitters at the front of the lineup to generate some offense. No way Gotay should be hitting that high in the lineup. Let’s also hope for a lights out performance Jair tonight. Hasn’t he seen most of these guys before?
By Freshmaker
June 27, 2008 5:46 PM | Link to this
Harden would be a great catch, but from what I’ve read the A’s are going to ask for the sun and the moon for him. You’d have to get rid of a bunch of your top prospects for him. Also, he’s been injury prone. Not saying he can’t get past that, but he’s missed significant time in each of the past few years. It would be a tremendous risk to trade for him.
By Ramblin
June 27, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this
N8, good read on Corky and McCann. Even DOB would probably agree with that.(How Great McCann is). Hope he makes All-Stars.
By ncscoots
June 27, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this
TennPaul, thanks for those numbers on Nady and Bay. At least, that makes it clear that Nady is a bad idea, cheap or not.
Bay certainly seems to have a number of supporters in the forum, but we’re starting to get some Freel-ish hyperbole on the guy, LOL. Bay is probably a good candiate for hitting cleanup on the Pirates, a team not exactly loaded with sticks. But, on the Braves team, he’s a complementary player, not a centerpiece.
If part of the reasoning for acquiring him is that he can be a replacement cleanup hitter if Teixeira leaves, well, I’d have to part ways with his supporters at that point. I somehow can’t find myself lending credence to a statement like “Jason Bay can carry this team offensively for a month”. Put Mark Teixeira’s name in that statement, and I find it eminently believeable. Cleanup hitters should be scary. Jason Bay is just…pretty good; a fine OF hitting 5, 6, or 7, but not a player around which you build your offense.
Don’t get me wrong, I think he (or someone like him) could help the Braves this year. But let’s not overvalue the guy just because he’s wearing a uniform without a tomahawk.
By TennesseePaul
June 27, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this
i’d rather have the the more clutch hitter with better defense.
Ohhhh, OK. So it’s about Late and Close now and not K’s too much or not another strikeout prone HR threat.
By BravesFanInRockies
June 27, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this
N8,
I’ll give you the point that if Corky were the worst of the Braves’ problems, we’d all have our WS tickets in hand by now.
Corky’s a symptom of a bigger problem. When you’re carrying 12 or 13 pitchers, your bench consists of four or five players. If one of those guys can’t hit a third of his weight, then everybody else needs to be Ted Williams. Or you need to shorten your bullpen and have another bat on the bench.
By TennesseePaul
June 27, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this
I noticed you didn’t post the rest of Bay’s stats with 2 out and RISP…
G PA AB SO BB XBH AGE OBP SLG OPS Bay 284 359 290 75 67 36 .266 .407 .500 .907 Nady 234 285 253 61 26 22 .269 .351 .423 .774There they are for good measure. But is the acquisition of Bay or Nady for the bench or for an every day role? If it were a bench sort of thing, I could understand going to get him based on a couple of favorable splits. But if he’s to play every day, then Bay is still the superior choice.
Efrim is probably right, Bay would “cost” more than Nady. That’s entirely because Bay is the superior player. But at this point, I’d rather see what Diaz can do when he comes back. If he’s healthy, he’ll hit with the same average or better as Nady and it wouldn’t cost the Braves anything.
By TennesseePaul
June 27, 2008 6:02 PM | Link to this
Scoots: Agreed. If anyone is acquired of that caliber it would be for a lower position in the order. Supposing Kotsay gets healthy and back in the game then a line up of:
Escobar, Kotsay, Chipper, Teixeira, McCann, Bay, KJ, Francoeur, Pitcher would be a very nice line up.
Bay certainly isn’t the guy to replace Teixeira, or anyone on the team other than the plethora of bench players we’ve been running out to left.
By McFann©
June 27, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this
22oz—
I was a little shocked to see McCann in the starting lineup on Wednesday as well. I know he’s a valuable guy to have in the lineup, but…he’s not gonna be able keep up the rate off starting 69 out of 80 games. That puts him on pace to start around 140 games, and participate in about 148 games. So, in conclusion, that a whopping 14 complete days off (discounting those days where there is no game).
Jim—
You were asking about McCann’s DGANG stats? Here you go (This year only—10 starts):
.289 AVG (11-38), 4 2B, 2 HR, 4 RBI, 4 BB, 9 SO, .553 SLG
So otherwise, his stats are (64 games):
.303 AVG (69-228), 18 2B, 1 3B 12 HR, 40 RBI, 24 BB, 27 SO, .548 SLG.
I, personally, think he should not start on Saturday (behind the plate, at least). But Hudson’s gonna start, so I’d imagine McCann will, too.
I hope Chipper and co. cann keep off the DL. Thanks for the update, Chief.
By Ramblin
June 27, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this
Tennessee Paul, ncsoots,Efrim and B’s Cox… All of you have great points about both players. I could give my opinion on who I wanted but…It really don’t matter because Mr Wren will make that decision.
I do like to read your blogs. Keep it up.
By Interested Observer
June 27, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this
No Corky today. Lineup is Blanco, Gotay, Johnson, Tex, McCann, Norton, Francouer, B Jones, Lillibridge.
By McFann©
June 27, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this
Neight—
Those two pennies were real shiny!
No, really, you made a great point…
By Tommy Smith
June 27, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this
A kick in the rear fer ya, Davey O’Brien. An Irish lad should know better than to put down Euro 2008.
The matches have been much more exciting than Braves games lately. The Atlanta lads have been playing like s** for most of the season.
By Chop Chop
June 27, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this
Rich Harden isn’t going anywhere. The A’s have a $7 million ‘09 option on him. If he can stay healthy this year, he just might be able to prove that he can hold up for a longer stretch. Seven million bucks is a small price to pay for a pitcher of his caliber.
Of course, if you’re a team interested in Harden, how could you possibly give up a lot to get him? The guy’s been hurt too much to trust that he’ll hold up.
It’s a very tricky situation. The fact that the A’s are 8 games over .500 (I can envision an “Oh, but Chop Chop, the Braves are better than them!” comment) right now makes it easier for them to just keep Harden and see what happens. He might help carry them to the playoffs. You never know, right? Besides, he’ll be considerably cheaper next year than a bum like Cubs superstar Jason Marquis ($9.875 million, not a typo) in 2009.
By Murphy
June 27, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this
In the SI article someone linked to above, they mentioned Freddy Garcia again…I would sure love the Braves to pick him up if he is back to full form again.
By Bobby's Cox
June 27, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this
Tennessee Paul
You’re posting career numbers. I’m looking at situational hitting, because that is what THIS team lacks.
I’ve followed Bay every day for 3 years since I’m in a keeper fantasy league. Too inconsistant.
Nady’s bat, especially in run scoring situations, is a lot more potent this year. If you get runners on, which this team does, then you need to bring them home.
How bout a little consistency in the lineup? Nady would gel more nicely in this lineup, especially late in close games where this team is most likely to struggle. That’s my opinion, but the stats back it up.
Hope you can see that. BTW, the braves I know like to go for the cheaper, more versatile player. That, again, would be Nady. However, the braves need more than Nady. They need a strong reliever (Pitt has that too in Marte), and a good young starter as well. I like Harden. He’s young, throws hard, and is an ace. I understand he’s too injury prone, but at 26, I think he’s past that.
Enjoy the game tonight…gotta run.
By JC FROM UT
June 27, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this
Has anyone mentioned or considered Raul Ibanez from Seattle. Yes he is a left handed hitter which isn’t ideal the way this team plays against lefties, but he is a really good hitter even against lefties. Seattle need a SS and pitching, both starters and relievers. I would offer a choice of L’bridge/Diory Hernandez and Locke.
By Joe Fan
June 27, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this
DOB,
HAve you herard Shearwater’s Rook yet? It is an amazing album!
By GT
June 27, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this
This idea of trading away Charlie Morton in return for someone like Nady or Bay is ridiculous. Sure the Braves may have the best ERA at the moment, but it is tenuous. If you trade Morton, who do you replace him with in the rotation? Glavine? James? Hampton? Please… Morton has the stuff to be a #1 starter. Lets not trade away a building block for years to come in order to fool ourselves into thinking we have a chance this season.
By ncscoots
June 27, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this
TPaul, good to see “plethora” appear on the blog. :-) Relieves my angst.
Most here know I’m not the biggest Diaz fan around, and he did have a hard time early, but I’m inclined to think he can help in the second half, too. Not as much as a slugger might, but some.
But it won’t much matter what uni number is in LF, if the RH contingent (Escobar, Tex, and Frenchy) doesn’t light up.
On your lineup, I agree that the Braves (at least, in my perception) have functioned best offensively with Escobar and Kotsay at the top. Bottom of your order gets kinda funky, though, because I think KJ at 8 is a waste. On the other hand, Francoeur might never see a hittable pitch at 8, EVER, and that’s not exactly the way to get out of a slump, LOL. So, the lower order might be a little dicey.
By kirknga
June 27, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this
Thanks Bobby’s Cox for giving us the numbers that count. They answer the question about which player is more likely to help the Braves in the area they are most weak in offensively and it is clearly Nady.
Plus Nady is a notorious Braves killer so acquiring him would be an additional plus.
I don’t see why Bonds shouldn’t get at least a chance. He is not accused of killing anyone, beating his wife, DUI, nothing violent. He is a Grade A -hole yes,but we survived Sheifield and didn’t we give Spier a shot this year? Seems some peoples’ moral indignation isn’t applied equally.
I still say the Braves need a bat and a frontline starter. Asking pitchers in their 1st-2nd year to carry you to and through the playoffs is not the way to properly develop them.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this
Looks like a road-game lineup in spring training: Blanco, Gotay, Kelly, Teixeira, McCann, Norton, Francoeur, B. Jones, Lil’ Bridge.
By Tommy Smyth
June 27, 2008 6:39 PM | Link to this
Larn how ta spell me name, Tommy Smith. If ye ain’t careful, oi’l bend ye like a Beckham free kick an’ put a bulge in the ol’ onion bag.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 6:41 PM | Link to this
Back-to-back tunes they’ve played here: Bowie/Queen’s “Under Pressure” and now Depeche Mode’s “Strange Love.”
By MiamiBeachBravesFan
June 27, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB,
Both AtlantaBraves.com and the AJC dropped the ball on the dragging, yet still-relevant soap opera that is Mike Hampton’s progress - or lack thereof.
Just this Wednesday, he had a rehab assignment with a non-GCL minor league affiliate, AND NEITHER ONE OF YOU MADE MENTION OF HAMPTON’S PERFORMANCE. I mean, I too am happy with Morton, Jurrjens, Campillo, and Reyes - all have exceeded expectations.
Yet, this is relevant stuff, one way or the other. Young pitchers tend to run out of gas in late August and September. The possibility of Glavine’s and Hampton’s return - if the Bravos can finally start hitting consistently - are big factors in any shot the Braves’ have in contending for the division title.
I guess Bowman, you, and Rodgers are just as fed up with Hampton - as most are. Yet, it is still important stuff to keep track of.
By jbutler
June 27, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this
Tommy Smith Not a big soccer fan..actually not one at all. But a tip ‘o the hat to any sport whose fans are better known as “hooligans”. That seems like a sport that should take off in the US…
By Deep Throat
June 27, 2008 6:54 PM | Link to this
I’d trade Morton OR Hanson for Jason Bay. Guy is a star. Lot of people still seem to think he’s struggling this season:
.287/.394/.531, .925 OPS and 15 homeruns.
An unproven prospect who Sickles projects as a future third starter (Tommy Hanson) or a guy with control problems who hasn’t blown anyone away in his three major league starts (Morton: 1-1, 4.24 ERA and 1.35 WHIP) and doesn’t have a long track record of minor league success for 1.5 years, and maybe more if you extend him, of Jason Bay? YES! That is a good deal for the Braves. They need a young right-handed power bat for left field…lest we be subjected to more Blanco.
People need to stop overvaluing propects. It’s now like they LOSE value when they reach their full potential in the majors.
By Colonel Lingus
June 27, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this
Following up on a question I received several times in yesterday’s chat: I spoke to someone in the Atlanta player development department regarding Julio Teheran, the 17-year-old Colombian right-hander playing for Danville in the Appalachian League. He was removed from his last start after experiencing “minor discomfort” in his right shoulder, and the team is going to have his arm checked out. They don’t expect to find anything major, but given how special his arm is, they decided to err on the side of caution.
By TennesseePaul
June 27, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this
Plus Nady is a notorious Braves killer so acquiring him would be an additional plus.
I don’t see the importance of this. The Braves don’t face Nady again this season unless he is trade to a different team.
Bobby C: I see your point about the situational splits, but I still don’t think I’d go for Nady. The stats I last put up were the full numbers in RISP over a career. I can’t find, nor do I want to go through all the game logs to create, the situational stats split by season halves. I would speculate that Nady’s “clutch stats” will also drop off in the second half along with everything else.
Neither of those two is really amazing to me and giving up more than a few players I’ve never really heard of would be a disappointment. Mainly because those guys would still be around next season and I don’t see that as a particularly strong thing, even if it gives the Braves an advantage in the 7 Pirates head to head match ups. There are 162 games in a season.
Hopefully Wren can get something else. I get bummed everytime I read the speculations from ESPN or SI or FoxSports or wherever and all it includes are .270 hitters with 20 HR potential for LF.
By Crazy Stats Katz
June 27, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this
MiamiBeachBravesFan, you ignorant slut, here is what DOB wrote the other day about Hampton’s game Wednesday:
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.
ENOUGH WITH THE GOTCHA B.S.!!!
By Chop Chop
June 27, 2008 6:58 PM | Link to this
MiamiBeachBravesFan,
Try reading the “Braves notes” articles sometime. The story about Tommy Hanson’s no-hitter includes the Hampton report. Should the headline be Hampton when a top prospect throws a no-hitter? Hell no.
Here’s the link:
[Braves notes from June 25}(http://www.ajc.com/braves/content/sports/braves/stories/2008/06/25/bravesnot_0626.html)
By stamper
June 27, 2008 7:02 PM | Link to this
Fleet Foxes at the Drunken Unicorn next week. Who’s going? I am, thats who!
By BravesFanInRockies
June 27, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this
Oh, good grief. Corky the only bench player? Omar, Chipper, Yunel benched?
The series is in an AL park. You won’t need pinch hitters for pitchers. Send somebody down and get another bat!!!
Is Wren alive? Has someone checked his pulse?
By Interested Observer
June 27, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this
If this is a spring training line-up, does that mean that Jurrjens is going to leave after 3 innings and go play golf?
By Chop Chop
June 27, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this
Hahahahaha…
That’s an E1 on me for the screwed-up link.
By Robert
June 27, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this
David,
I saw Cowboy junkies at the place where Rob Lowe got in trouble (Club Rio?)in town right after Trinity Session came out. What did you think of the REM concert?
By ppaddy123
June 27, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB Your buddy at Ellaguru is selling a Producers CD on EBAY. You need to tell him, if he wants top dollar, he needs to accept PAYPAL payments. I figure it will sell for about half of its $150.00 dollar value because he doesn’t accept PAYPAL.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this
Wow, Tex does like hitting against these Blue Jays, doesn’t he?
By Texas Brave
June 27, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this
Way to Go TEX!!!!
By Doc Holliday
June 27, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this
YEAH YEAH YEAH…….TRADE TEX!!!!! HAHAHA.
By Jeff321
June 27, 2008 7:23 PM | Link to this
Has any other manager in recent memory only had one player named Corky Miller available on the bench? Why not put some of these guys on the DL? I don’t care who it is, but this is a joke!
By kirknga
June 27, 2008 7:27 PM | Link to this
TennPaul
perhaps you failed to see..or remember rather…Nady’s performances against. Both with the Mets and now with the Pirates. I think you have forgotten how many key hits he got against us this year.
Anyway, it was a secondary point, an ..”added benefit” is what I said, not a reason to trade.
The reasopn for Nady, in my view, is he has the better career avg in late and close situations. Bay’s number tells me that he can get it done early, but when it’s late and the pressure is on, Nady is the guy you want(over Bay).
On a team with so many 1-run losses it is just logical to pick the player who is better in crunch time(though no spectacularly so).
By Steve from OH
June 27, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this
Erik Cordier pitched an inning tonight for the GCL Braves, for those interested.
By Coach (Put up, shut up, do or die)
June 27, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this
I love these Toronto announcers ! They are questioning as to why the Braves only have one Championship in spite of all the post season teams ! Gentlemen, keep up the interrogation.
By Efrim
June 27, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this
What a b****** call….
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 7:43 PM | Link to this
Terrible call there. If you’re the pitcher, apparently all you need to do there is throw and it the runner in the back and you’ll, in effect, get him out.
Not the right call in that situation. The runner was in about the only place he could be.
By Doc Holliday
June 27, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this
Jeff321 I agree. Babby is playing with fire. But he has been unlucky. He was trying to go with chipper as his PH, but he could have not know Yunel and Infante were gonna get hurt also.
Problem here is that if there is and injury to KJ or Gotay…..this could get ugly in a hurry.
Lets just have some faith…..maybe yunel or infante could get back in the lineup soon enough before luck gets worse.
By RLPmetro
June 27, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this
That was a horrible call. That was one of the worst throws I have ever seen.
And explain how Blanco has to go back to first! He would have been at second no matter what on that play. It would make more sense to me that Blanco be sent back to second base, but all the way back to first?!?!?!
By keylargo
June 27, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this
I didn’t hear the Toronto announcers question the Braves one Championship but I did see the graphic they put up.
The Braves have played .590 ball since the Jays played them in the 92 series with 6 100+ win season, 12 first place finishes in the division and seven managers.
So Coach, WHAT DO YOU THINK OF BOBBY COX NOW?
By ncscoots
June 27, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this
On a team with so many 1-run losses it is just logical to pick the player who is better in crunch time(though no spectacularly so).
But does it make sense to make a mid-season pickup of a guy who historically fades at mid-season? That, more than anything, would make me leery of the guy.
But, as usual, one of the usual suspects probably won’t be the pickup that Wren makes, anyway, so the Bay/Nady discussion is probably just good blog fodder. :-)
By Texas Brave
June 27, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this
And Tex comes thur again!!!!
Go Braves!!
By McFann©
June 27, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this
Boy, the Braves sure got screwed on that call at first.
Should be 4-0…
By Doc Holliday
June 27, 2008 7:48 PM | Link to this
TEX welcome back to AL.
By Jeff321
June 27, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this
Gotay got shafted! I mean, getting hit in the head and called out. Btw, according to the Blue Jays announcers and my eyes, Gotay was right on the line..
By keylargo
June 27, 2008 7:50 PM | Link to this
My post to Coach was missing a paragraph and I apologize for having to repost.
The Toronto broadcasters put up this graphic.
Since the Jays played the Braves in the 92 series the Jays have played .495 ball with no 100 win seasons, 1 division title and seven managers.
The Braves have played .590 ball with 6 100+ win seasons, 12 divsion titles and one manager.
How is that Coach?
By Pete H.
June 27, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this
Joe Fan wrote:
HAve you herard Shearwater’s Rook yet? It is an amazing album!
I just took my daughter to see them on Tuesday. Her favorite band and by coincidence playing on her 18th bday. A great, great show.
Check out youtube for their video of Eno’s Baby’s On Fire from the last time we saw them here in Chicago. The kid scammed her way in (underage) by emailing them. They made her assistant merch girl, so she got in for free to boot.
By Efrim
June 27, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this
Anyone know what is wrong with Cole Rohrbough? Hasn’t pitched in a while. If anyone has info on him or Teheran, I’d appreciate it.
By Coach (Put up, shut up, do or die)
June 27, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this
Cito Gaston, two World Championships.
Bobby Cox, one World Championship.
I have no questions.
By Doc Holliday
June 27, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this
Is JF diabetic? Thats what they are saying on TV (toronto)
By McFann©
June 27, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this
Doc H—
No, that’s the Jays’ pitcher who’s a diabetic.
By Jeff321
June 27, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this
Is JF diabetic? Thats what they are saying on TV (toronto)
They said McGowan is a diabetic.
By Robin
June 27, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this
J.J.’s pitching lights out! I know , I know, let’s don’t jinx him.
I’m liking this game so far.
By Coach (Put up, shut up, do or die)
June 27, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this
OK, I’ll be nice and give Bobby Cox some love.
What three current major league managers cut their teeth under the watchful eye of Bobby Cox?
The first name should be easy as he is sitting in the other dugout.
By N8y (just in case we pick up Xavier)
June 27, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this
Keylargo
You wanna know what’s just as “insane” as Robert, Coach and I ragging on Cox’s post-season record and trying to convince you all he’s overrated by using the same numbers over and over?
Y’all pointing to the regular season success and using the same numbers over and over again trying to prove he’s the greatest (or one of them), ever.
So let me join in the fun, by being repetitive, as well.
Since you used the “since the Jays played them in the 92 series”, as the starting point, let me start there.
1993-2002 (The time frame in which Maddux, Glavine and Smoltz were “together), the Braves went 952-600 (.613 winning percentage).
2003-Present (The time frame in which the “big 3” began to be “broken up”), the Braves have gone 489-401 (.549 winning percentage).
To break it down even further to show what the team has done since the “Baby Braves” have been in the lineup (2005 - Present), the Braves have gone 292-274 (.515 winning percentage).
If that doesn’t clarify it, keep pointing to those STAR STUDDED “100 win” teams in the 90’s and early 00’s.
I’ll concede he’s NOT as bad as I often say he is, but he’s surely not as good as the HOFr’s (and HUGE payrolls) made him look for a decade.
There. I got my obligatory “the Big 3 carried Bobby” rant off my chest for the month of June.
By Carlton
June 27, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this
Coach
Braves: 3
Blue Jays: 0
Its all that matters to me right now…
By Braves Fan in PA
June 27, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this
If the braves make a trade this season I think in order of likelyhood the following would be moved: 1-James (He seems to be pitching better and doesn’t seem like he is favored in Atlanta) 2-Stockman (He seems to be on Bobby’s don’t use list like happened to Devine in his last year here) 3-One of our lefty relievers (other then Gonzalez) 4-Lillibridge (Don’t like the idea of trading him but if the Braves go for a big name I’ld imagine he could be part of it) 5-Acosta (He seems to have the potential teams are looking for 6-One of our Outfielders (Diaz, Jones, Anderson, Blanco), Don’t think any is worth a lot by themselves that is why I put them at #6.
I’ll leave who we go after for someone else to speculate on.
By keylargo
June 27, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this
DOCHOLLIDAY
I heard them say that about the Toronto pitcher Dustin McGowan. They said his vision was worse at night, thus the glasses.
By N8y (just in case we pick up Xavier)
June 27, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this
Keylargo
I think to be fair to the Blue Jays, the had a TON of “mercenaries” on those teams, at the end of their career.
So many of those guys were OUT of baseball at the time of those two WS in 92 and 93 that they won.
The Braves were at the beginning of a run that would keep the core of their players together for some time.
To be a little more fair, one would have to go BACKWARDS to show how good the Blue Jays were.
From 1983-1993 the Blue Jays went 1004-778 (.563 winning percentage)
Ironically, from 83-85, Bobby Cox was the manager. From 86-89, Jimy Williams was the manager. Cito took over in 1990, and they went 369-280 (.568 winning percentage), winning two WS championships.
I realize the point of their graphic they showed, was to show what’s happened since. But, like I said, it was the end of a damn fine run, while the Braves were just starting theirs.
By kirknga
June 27, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this
ncscoots
Yes if the choice is between Bay or Nady, I rather have the guy who does, but fades, than the one who doesn’t do it all. Also, who knows what either guy would do playing on a contender late in the season which neither has to this point.
Bay is clearly the guy you want if you’re looking for someone to get on base.
Nady also has the better average against lefties the past 3 seasons than Bay. So that’s another area the Braves needs help.
So while both could be an improvement over what we have, Nady seems to address more deficiencies than Bay.
By Pete H.
June 27, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this
Rats, there goes the no-no.
By Doc Holliday
June 27, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this
OH OK, Keylargo, I thought there were talking about JF since he was batting. But I heard the same thing you heard…… Thanks for clearing it for me.
By keylargo
June 27, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this
N8
Those numbers were a graphic put up by Toronto. I think they were making the point they thought Bobby Cox was a pretty good manager and this is what he has done in the years since the World Series against seven Toronto managers.
Doesn’t that sound just a little like a compliment for Cox by the opposition?
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this
Slipping on that step at Wrigley might have been the best thing that could’ve happened to Jurrjens. That arm is rejuvenated. He gave up 11 runs in 10-1/3 innings in his last two starts before that incident, missed a turn, and now has given up three unearned runs (zero earned runs) and 12 hits in 18-2/3 innings since he got back.
By Andy K.
June 27, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this
I have a feeling that if Jason Phillips does well with Rochmond, we’ll find Corky Miller back in Richmond, and Phillips up in Atlanta. No point in bringing up Sammons, still needs to play everyday.
By Efrim
June 27, 2008 8:29 PM | Link to this
Wow, I thought Tex, Heap and Frenchy hit home runs when the ball left their bats there in the 6th.
Just missed it.
By Wally Weiner
June 27, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this
I know a guy who went to Havana via Toronto.He said that even in it’s state of disrepair you could see it was a beautiful city at one time and the landscape is amazing.Politics aside I’d go in a minute if I had a chance.
By Crazy Stats Katz
June 27, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this
Someone didn’t find himself a woman.
By Doc Holliday
June 27, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this
Sorry Mc just read your post, thanks to you too.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this
Cito Gaston, two World Championships.
Bobby Cox, one World Championship.
I have no questions.Coach
I guess by that astute, deep-inside-the-game thinking and logic, then Gaston’s a better manager than Jim Leyland.
Sure. Makes sense to me. Good point.
By N8y (just in case we pick up Xavier)
June 27, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this
keylargo
I hear you (about THEM putting up the graphic).
No denying that Cox has had success. Also, one could say that Cox helped build the core of those Blue Jays teams when he was their manager in the mid-80’.
Having said that, didn’t the Jays miss out on some golden opportunities in the playoffs in the mid-80’s under Bobby?
It is what it is.
The numbers don’t lie on both counts (regular season success & post-season failures - relative to amount of opportunities).
By Efrim
June 27, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this
Tex has put on a clinic at first base tonight. Jair is looking real strong. Lets get some more runs on the board and put this game away.
By Smokey
June 27, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this
Some yahoo in the crowd keeps blowing that stupid horn after every pitch as it’s heading to the plate. Starting to pizz me off.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this
I’m continually amazed by how a few of you would rather hear yourselves support each other with your pithy fire-the-manager rants and stats than actually watch the game and discuss a rookie pitcher who’s having a phenomenal performance and a great season.
But then, that might directly or indirectly constitute a vote of approval of how Jurrjens has been used and his development this season under McDowell and this regime, wouldn’t it? Yeah, better get back to citing the regular-season records while they had Maddux, Glavine, Smoltz, etc. The important stuff.
By Robin
June 27, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this
Tex is flashin’ the leathuh tonight.
Lotta ramifications with this series and the Phil’s recent slide. Maybe their bats will stay silent for at least another week.
By Wilson
June 27, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this
DOB what are the chances Chipper has to miss the All-Star Game due to this lingering quad injury? I’d hate for him to miss it after he’s had such a great 1st half, and personally I’d hate to see David Wright have to start in his place.
Enjoying the Tex show tonight.
By Kim
June 27, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this
Just turned on the game. Is someone blowing an air horn before every one of Jair’s pitches? That’s getting irritating.
By Coach (Put up, shut up, do or die)
June 27, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this
O’Brien, considering the fact that you are a total A-S-S, not much would make sense to you.
By N8y (just in case we pick up Xavier)
June 27, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this
DOB
Good point on JJJ (regarding his “time off” due to the slip at Wrigley).
Gotta hand it to Tex. Dude showed up to play tonight. The leather has been on display. Perhaps a GG in store for him? Not sure if the Cubs keep winning that anybody will take it “away” from Derek Lee, but….
“I guess by that astute, deep-inside-the-game thinking and logic, then Gaston’s a better manager than Jim Leyland.”
I’m not sure that one can say any manager is “better” than any other based on WS wins. But one could argue that a manager is better at getting MORE out of their players come crunch time.
Anybody else out there think that in “appearance” Brandon Jones resembles a young Edgar Renteria? I’m not talking swing or playing ability. Just looking at his face.
By Gotta get some runs here in the 7th
June 27, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this
We really must.
By kirknga
June 27, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this
Good job Brandon Jones.
By Pete H.
June 27, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this
DOB
Did you see my earlier rec of The Overdraught, a pub down Front St. from whatever they’re calling the Skydome these days (Rogers Ctr?). Great Irish pub, terrific food (best fish and chips I have ever had) and good Irish/alt.country music on the system. Really friendly, too.
By keylargo
June 27, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this
Who can forget Knoblauch and Lonnie Smith.
By N8y (just in case we pick up Xavier)
June 27, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this
DOB
“I’m continually amazed by how a few of you would rather hear yourselves support each other with your pithy fire-the-manager rants and stats”
I haven’t ranted once today about firing Bobby. Lets get it straight. I’m not interested, nor desire to have him fired. I’m just curiously waiting to see the “difference” when he’s not here anymore.
But, YES, agreed, JJJ has looked fantastic, and credit must be given to Roger and Bobby in handling him.
Anybody else out there annoyed by the tiny “snipit” commercials on the Blue Jays broadcast that they do after the first out of the inning? Lame.
By Kim
June 27, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this
Aren’t those stupid air horns illegal? Why can’t they do something about it?
By Smokey
June 27, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this
Kim, yes! And if I could reach through my TV and shove that horn…
Doesn’t seem to be affecting JJ, though.
But, seriously, how annoying. He probably doesn’t even hear it. What a tool.
By ncscoots
June 27, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this
DOB, Jurrjens has had, what, two balls out of the infield tonight? You’re right, I think, that little rest was just the ticket. Something to keep in mind for the Braves later this season, maybe. The kid’s already approaching 100 IP, even with the team trying to manage his output.
By N8y (just in case we pick up Xavier)
June 27, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this
DOB
In fairness, to all discussing Cox and Gaston and what have you, the Blue Jays broadcast keeps talking about it.
They just had Devon White in the booth, and have been showing highlight after highlight of the Jays winning in the 92 WS. So…blame them for opening sore wounds. LOL!
In fact, they just showed a double down the line…OFF OF LEIBRANDT, who was pitching in relief FOR THE SECOND YEAR IN A ROW IN THE WS!!!!
I had actually forgot that Cox brought him in the next year against the Blue Jays, after he gave up the BOMB to Kirby in 1991. (sigh)
But I agree. Tonight, between Tex and JJJ, the Braves showed up to play.
Nothing really to complain about.
Nice stat they just showed about JJJ.
1st time through the order they are hitting .233. 2nd time through order .284, and the 3rd time through the order .245.
It shows the nice job of him (and McCann) re-adjusting, AFTER the hitters have adjusted to him.
By MAV
June 27, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this
David O’Brien,
You are extremely right. Jair is putting on a clinic tonight. Best he’s looked all year. Too bad people like Coach would rather complain about the manager than enjoy the game. I’m sure Coach is a great fan for the Braves with all his positivity
By flange1
June 27, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this
Well we have been asking for Tex to step up.
He has take at least 4 steps forward tonight.
JJJ looks filthy tonight.
I will always love Edgar Renteria, but I am VERY happy to have JJJ.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this
That was the first inning where he didn’t face the minimum number of batters. So far 22 batters, 21 outs.
By MGL
June 27, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this
jair has been phenominal, 2H, 1 batter over min. wonder if Bobby will pull him at 86 pitches to svae arm.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this
Tex has hit as many homers in last five games (five) as he hit in his first 48 games.
By MEB
June 27, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this
This is a work of art being painted by the young Jair Jurrjens. The masterpiece is the work at first by Mark Teixeira. The Braves need to ante up and keep this guy anchored at first base.
GO BRAVES!!!
By bf54
June 27, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this
I propose that we just agree to disagree on the Bar(roid) Bonds issue. Doesn’t matter what the argument is to support his signing, this is not going to (and should not)happen. Hank Aaron goes back to 1954 - and is still a prominant personage (as he should be on his merits, not merely his legacy).
The future does not lie in the past. As Rick Pittino once famously said in a rage to the Celtics: “Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parrish are not going to walk in that door”.
Well…folks the Smoltz, Glavine, Mad Dog era is gone - and Mike Hampton is not to ride into Jerusalem on a donkey. Barry Bonds ain’t goin’ to launch one into the Chattahoochee. The story is dead. Got it? Geessh- some of you are ‘thick as a brick’- let…it..go!!!!!
By Coach (Put up, shut up, do or die)
June 27, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this
O’Brien, honestly. You sir make me want to PUKE !
Apologists like yourself will make any excuse in the book in an attempt to defend Bobby Cox. Stop it already, I’m not buying the trash that you and every other journalist in Atlanta, Georgia has tried to hawk to the uninformed all these years that Cox has managed.
Snake oil salesman could be a real career path if you so chose to pursue it.
Cox is the most O-V-E-R-R-A-T-E-D manager in the game of baseball bar none. That doesn’t mean he is bad at the job, after all the man has been at it for twenty-eight years and is a mortal lock for the Hall of Fame.
It means that when one manager takes fifteen teams to the post season and comes away with one Championship, then everything that he has done deserves to be questioned, second guessed, pored over and reevaluated.
The man has one Championship to his credit, HURRRAH ! meanwhile, he has lost four more as the manager and cost the Braves franchise even more as the GM.
By ncgary
June 27, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
jjj is making a big case for rookie of the uear if not cy young lol but tonight in ny holds the potential for trivia lovers if yanks win at shea , then both ny teams would have won today in ny but neither one at home, what are the odds of that about a quadrillion to 1
By McFann©
June 27, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this
Would you QUIT STRIKING OUT!!!?
My gosh!
You’re welcome, Doc.
By N8
June 27, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this
Coach
”..he has lost four more as the manager and cost the Braves franchise even more as the GM.”
THAT ONE you’re gonna have to explain to me. You lost me there.
By Crazy Stats Katz
June 27, 2008 9:12 PM | Link to this
Cooch, there has never been anyone in more need of getting laid than you.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 9:12 PM | Link to this
ncscoots, just two balls out of infield, plus Stairs’ little bloop single just beyond the painted border of infield
By Billiken
June 27, 2008 9:12 PM | Link to this
Seeing Terry Pendelton sprawled on his backside by the dugout makes me hope that the lazy sob doesn’t get Bobby’s job.
By Robin
June 27, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this
Dang it! Sure would’ve been nice for Frenchie to put some wood on the ball at that AB. :(
Seems like it’s always 0-2 before he gets to the plate.
By flange1
June 27, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this
B Jones looking pretty good tonight too.
Coach, explain the Cox GM thing…
By Efrim
June 27, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this
Great play by Brandon Jones.
By TennesseePaul
June 27, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this
DOB: Jair is kicking @ss.
ncscoots: Agreed. It’s like replacing a flat tire with a tire with a slow leak.
But whatever, unless Nady changes teams, the Braves don’t have to see him again until next year. Let him fade off some place else.
Texas and Philly are in a crazy battle. And the Mets just started the second of the double header, looking for the sweep.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this
Boyer and Ohman up in Braves ‘pen
By N8
June 27, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this
Nice catch by B-Jones. Gotay made a nice stop (but couldn’t get the out with a speedy runner), and Tex has made several nice plays in the field.
As good a JJJ has been, and he’s been damn good. The defense has been stellar behind him tonight.
Pitching. Defense. Timely hitting.
It’s all you can ask for. Well, I guess you could ask for it to come around more consistently, but…
If this team starts to hit, they’re gonna be fine. I’m just not thoroughly convinced that they will hit consistently.
But tonight (along with Wednesday’s game), surely is a nice start.
To quote Lou Braun from Major League II:
“You guys won today. You guys won Wednesday, so that’s two in a row. If you win again tomorrow, that’s called a winning streak. It has happened before”
I hope I didn’t jinx this potential win, by assuming it’s in the bag. LOL!
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this
Geez, Kelly was in medium right field when he caught that ball. Not like there was any chance he’d drop it, though. I mean, when’s the last time someone dropped a popup like that on a Friday night in the late innings… d’oh!
By cabravesfan
June 27, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this
Simply OUTSTANDING outing by JJ tonight…This kid is looking like he could be something very special
By dru
June 27, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this
This is where the lack of bullpen really hurts. JJJ is pitching great, but I’m sitting here HOPING he can finish out the eighth, since every other conceivable option just sounds like a tragedy waiting to happen!!
By kirknga
June 27, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this
Good catch by Brandon Jones. Even the Blue Jay announcers were impressed by that one.
I think the Brandon bashers should acknowledge that the kid appears to be able to play.
By keylargo
June 27, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this
Gonzo?
By NO MORE BOBBY
June 27, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this
Its strange how different of a team Atlanta is when the first base position hits. This is such a leader position for some reason with our club. And it goes back to Bream, McGriff and Galarraga. All those guys put up great numbers for the Braves and all those teams went to the playoffs.
Lets hope thats the case with this years team. Nice to see those Power Bars Tex eats on the bench are finally kicking in.
By Efrim
June 27, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this
What were the Tigers thinking??!?!?!?
Gorkys Hernandez has a 890 OPS at Myrtle Beach for crying out loud.
Did JS/FW wear a mask when they made that theft?
By DrHoo
June 27, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this
Jeff Francoeur this year reminds me so much of one of my all time favorite Braves players in his last year in a Braves uniform - Jeff Blauser. Decent player with promise, was solid and sometimes spectacular, but never really made it big, then lost it all of a sudden. Like jeff this year, in that season everytime Blauser came to the plate it was strike 1, strike 2, then he had to struggle with the 0-2 count at the mercy of the pitcher. The pitchers knew exactly how to get him out and he couldn’t adjust. Blauser never figured it out, went to the Cubs for a year, then was out of baseball. I’m a big fan of Francoeur (not bashing here), but if he doesn’t get his head straight we might see the same result.
By Wayne in Utah
June 27, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this
jbutler Always happy to show off our state to friendly neighbors. Yeah, we are thinking that the next year or two will be our shot at a title. Our 23rd pick is an American/Greek kid who replaced Greg Oden at Ohio St last year. Dude is 7’1” tall.
DOB My 16 year old son says soccer is a great game for kids who can’t play ball.
For those who want to continue to rail on BC, I have one question: Why? Nothing we do or say matters to Braves management. So, while some of his decisions drive me nuts on occassion, what are my choices? I guess I could rant on the MIB Blog, if I had nothing better to do.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this
Jurrjens has thrown 104 pitches. Only time he threw more in his major league career was 114 in his fourth game this season, in seven innings against Dodgers (three hits, one run).
I think I’d let him try to finish, see if he could get three outs in 10 or so pitches. At least face the first batter, see what happens.
But at same time, I don’t know what he’s saying about how he feels or whatever. Wouldn’t surprise me either way, if he does or doesn’t start the ninth.
By flange1
June 27, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Is it just me or should Frenchy been the one to catch that ball instead of KJ?
By N8
June 27, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this
Man. Kevin McAllister….er…Macaulay Culkin…..er….Brent Lillibridge looks young.
Maybe I’m just old.
I wonder if he SCREAMS when he puts on aftershave?
By kirknga
June 27, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this
Nice to see Brent get a hit. He has more speed than I thought.
By MGL
June 27, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this
Great at bat by Little Bridge.
By Wayne in Utah
June 27, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this
Hope Jurrjens gets a chance to finish this one…
By Jeff321
June 27, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
Ha, Frenchy wishes he could have an at bat like Lillibridge just did! However, don’t fret Jeff — Cox will promptly sent Brent back to the minors so he doesn’t embarrass you any further!
By Coach (Put up, shut up, do or die)
June 27, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
I would love to explain in explicit detail exactly how Lenny Dykstra, Howard Johnson, Frank Thomas and Barry Bonds could have all been in a Braves uniform at the beginning of their careers but for the decision making prowess of Bobby Cox as the Braves GM.
However, I don’t want to rehash ancient history. I’ll let that dog sleep. Suffice to say, Cox had the opportunity to build an absolute DYNASTY and he missed the chance.
At any rate, we are about to hit the halfway point in the 2008 season with a record of 40-41 while the pitching staff is the best in the N.L. The glass is half full and it should be pouring over. The Braves are in fourth place and they should be in first.
Say thank you to our venerable Hall of Fame manager for that.
By Flanders
June 27, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
Coach and Bobby sitting in a TREE….
By Run Heap Run
June 27, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
Jair is the man.
Myers lasted 2 innings for the Phils.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 9:38 PM | Link to this
Gonzalez in to start ninth. That answers that.
By Greg in TN
June 27, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this
Evening folks…
So far, the trek up to the Great White North by the Bravos has been rather lucrative, eh?
Sterling night on the mound by Jair Jurrjens. I think DOB is spot on when he said a slip on the Wrigley steps might have just been the luckiest break he and the team have had in some time.
After several disappointing games in the field both trying to catch and throw the baseball, a much better night tonight on the turf of Mr. Rogers Neighborhood, er, Centre. Tex has had a great night in the field and at the dish.
I believe the performance of the pitching staff, with Jurrjens, with Campillo, with Jo-Jo Reyes, with Charlie Morton should do much to boost Roger McDowell’s stock on Planet Braves. Not sure that will indeed be the case, probably not, however this denizen has certainly been impressed with his body of work, especially this season.
Thin pickings on the bench until the Offensive Assassin, Infante and Escobar can get well enough to play. Well, we do have Mr. Miller on the bench, but he doesn’t seem to garner very much support on the ‘ol Braves/MIB blog. I agree with N8, many more items of concern to me than a catcher that has 40 ABs in 81 games.
Now we just need three up/three down from Gonzo to get this weekend started off right.
By N8
June 27, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this
DOB
Forgot to mention that when Devon White was in the booth, they asked him about the “difference” between the WS victories in Toronto vs. the one he got with the Marlins in 97, he stated that there was NO comparison (and he did emphasize it like that).
He stated that in 92 and 93, (and even 91) ALL of the Blue Jays games were sold out and it was a blast playing for those fans. But in 97, the Marlins fans didn’t start showing up until they were winning, and even then didn’t do so.
Just thought it kinda pertained to our conversation yesterday about Florida’s attendance history.
Yikes.
By TennesseePaul
June 27, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this
Good job by Jiar today. Hope Gonzo can hold ‘em
By Run Heap Run
June 27, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this
Toronto is an armpit, why are so many wives on this trip? Are you enjoying the scenery at least, DOB?
By McFann©
June 27, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this
Neight—
LOL at you’re 9:31…
By A-ville Ranger
June 27, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this
This team is like ”The Terminator” as played by the late Wally Cox.Just when you think it’s dead,it rises from the debris,pushes it’s black rimmed glasses back on it’s nose and says ”excuse moi”in a high nasal tone.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this
Flange1, yes, should’ve been Francoeur’s to catch, or it certainly appeared that way….
Jurrjens (2.94) and Hudson (2.96) are now sixth and seventh in the NL in ERA, just behind Johan Santana (2.93).
By MGL
June 27, 2008 9:41 PM | Link to this
dru at 9:23, what are you talking about. The BP is 3rd in the League in ERA. Negative Nellie, I think.
By N8
June 27, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
As Skip would say, with all that motion and rocking, Gonzo would “make coffee nervous.”
Can’t argue the results though. Dude is getting it done. Hope that elbow holds up.
VERY nice victory tonight.
By Live from Yokohama
June 27, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
Jurrjens is the story, obviously, but a nice game Blanco put togeher for himself, too. That’s three times on base tonight, with an RBI single to boot.
You folks that are always looking for the next hot pitcher, wait until Yu Darvish escapes the Japanese league- this guy is incredible! 6’5, Mid nineties fastball and excellent breaking stuff. Better than Matsuzaka was at his age (22 this year). Man, if the posting system would just be done away with…
Hey DOB, you ever listened to any Japanese rock? Thought you might be interested in Guitar Wolf, or someone of their ilk, maybe…
By flange1
June 27, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
N8,
What would he need aftershave for? :)
By Robin
June 27, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
ATTAWAY GUYS! Great game, lets keep it goin’ tomorrow.
By Texas Brave
June 27, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this
N8 you are assuming Lilli shaves!!
By Stuart
June 27, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this
Great win tonight. This is what braves baseball is supposed to look like.
Gonzo looked GREAT in the 9th. Tex is coming around. To get a road win without Escobar and Chipper is HUGE. I hope the boys can build on this one.
By kirknga
June 27, 2008 9:46 PM | Link to this
Nice win. Everyone had a contribution either offensively, defensively, or both.
By Crazy Stats Katz
June 27, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this
However, I don’t want to rehash ancient history
Even Cooch is now admitting that the last time he had relations with a woman is ancient history.
By Run Heap Run
June 27, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this
DOB-if you were a betting man what would you put on Hoss going on the DL? I’m thinking (hoping) he’s trying to save himself for Philly and if others can step up, like they did tonight, there’s no reason not to give him that rest to make extra extra sure. Right?
By TennesseePaul
June 27, 2008 9:48 PM | Link to this
Coach: You’re 9:36 made me laugh at loud. (LOL for scoots). That was funny. If only Cox had picked players to build a dynasty… how different things would have been.
By N8
June 27, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
Run Heap Run
“Myers lasted 2 innings for the Phils.”
In other words…..BOOM! Outa here!
Those who listen to Jim Rome will understand that comment. If not, here’s a link:
Boom….outa here!
By Run Heap Run
June 27, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this
LOL flange. Doesn’t look like he’s started shaving yet to me either.
By Jair Floyd
June 27, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
The team is just fantastic, that’s exactly what I hear
Oh, by the way, which one’s Jair?
By Duckster
June 27, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
WOW!! COACH….MATURE OF YOU!!! class act!!!!
CLAP CLAP CLAP CLAP CLAP!!
By Mike FAN-zalez
June 27, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
Mike Gonzalez is beast, let’s lock him up for a while. We’re paying Weak-iano 6 mil next year.
By McFann©
June 27, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
Flange 1 What would he need aftershave for?
Same thing Kevin needed it for!
; ) Very nice win tonight!
Night, all!
By Run Heap Run
June 27, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
Ha N8 I never miss Rome. Boom. Done. Outta Here. is right.
By Mike FAN-zalez
June 27, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
EDIT:
Instead of Rafael Weakiano, I meant to say Rafael Suckiano.
By ATLiens
June 27, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
for everyone complaining about wren’s job as a gm his trade for jj is the single biggest reason that the braves arnt 10 or more games under .500
By TennesseePaul
June 27, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this
Rangers regain the lead!
By Texas Brave
June 27, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this
Great road depleted lineup win for Jair, Tex and the Braves.
DOB if Jair is a vet you leave him in for the ninth inning. Given that this is his first full big league year I think you have to cut down on the number of innings/pitches here and there as much as you can to preserve the arm.
I however would not have brought in Gonzalez. He has just come back from TJ surgery why use him in a non save situation when you may need him the next two days. You had Boyer and Ohman warming up why waste their effort.
Ok back to the positive. That was a positively brilliant game by Jair and Tex. Here is hoping Chip and Yunel get better soon.
By Run Heap Run
June 27, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this
Def need to lock Gonzo up. He’s got that fire in his belly and the arm to back it up like the Braves haven’t seen since Smoltzy went back to starter.
By Braves WIll WIn
June 27, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this
ATTENTION BRAVES FANS. At the end of the night the Braves could be 3 games out of first and 5 games out of the wild card. A week ago it was 6 in the east and 7 in the w-card. Don’t give up I feel a streak coming.
I will say this again and N8 mark my word the Braves will be in first at the all-star break. I predicted Wed they will need to fo 11-4 in their nect 15 games to do it. Well, now that is 10-4 after the win tonight. I will stand by my prediction on this series the Braves will sweep.
Don’t give-up Kotsay and prado are going to be back in Atlanta. And to be honest with you it probably wouldn’t be a bad idea to go ahead and put chipper and escobar on the DL when they return.
face it TEx is heating up and isn’t gonna cool. He is a late bloomer and so is this team. Hip hip hers to first by the break.
By Luther
June 27, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this
Every time I see Jair in the dugout I think of Argyle the limo driver from Diehard. I gotta be here for New Years!
By MGL
June 27, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this
Crazy Stats Katz - Your probably right on your 9:47, but he is doing his best to screw Robert’s donkey.
By Braves WIll WIn (Cody)
June 27, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this
ATTENTION BRAVES FANS. At the end of the night the Braves could be 3 games out of first and 5 games out of the wild card. A week ago it was 6 in the east and 7 in the w-card. Don’t give up I feel a streak coming.
I will say this again and N8 mark my word the Braves will be in first at the all-star break. I predicted Wed they will need to fo 11-4 in their nect 15 games to do it. Well, now that is 10-4 after the win tonight. I will stand by my prediction on this series the Braves will sweep.
Don’t give-up Kotsay and prado are going to be back in Atlanta. And to be honest with you it probably wouldn’t be a bad idea to go ahead and put chipper and escobar on the DL when they return.
face it TEx is heating up and isn’t gonna cool. He is a late bloomer and so is this team. Hip hip hers to first by the break.
By A-ville Ranger
June 27, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this
There is something beyond the one inning of work a reliable closer brings to the team.Just knowing if they have a late lead it’s not in vain seems to effect their collective will.
By Wayne in Utah
June 27, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this
DOB Thanks again for all your input. One question, if you get a chance, or if you already know.
What are the Braves thinking as far as Chuck James goes? He is doing very well in Richmond, actually the best starter as far as the numbers go. What would have to happen for him to get a callup?
Also, it will be interesting if Hampton’s health holds up this next month….
If Tommy G comes back, we might have a pitching overload. I am now leaving the keyboard, to go and knock on wood (hope I didn’t just jinx our staff!!).
By Braves WIll WIn (Cody)
June 27, 2008 10:10 PM | Link to this
Everyone lets hope all of the Tex-Phils games will go like this, because if it does the Philles pen will be running on fumes coming into Atlanta.
By Bill
June 27, 2008 10:10 PM | Link to this
Coach—- I would like to have some of that you are taking. You are way off. I don’t agree with Cox on everything. I wouldn’t fire him. Everyone has an opinion but you are insane. You need to settle down before you have a stroke.
By Efrim
June 27, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this
Kris Medlen struck out 8 and walked none in 6 IP tonight for Mississippi. He gave up 5 hits. 5’10” pitchers aren’t really that projectable, but Medlen has pitched really well since being converted to starter.
By Doc Holliday
June 27, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this
Texas Brave Youd have to think Gonzos appearance in the game was pure mental. But not for him or his confidence. But for the team´s. For them to learn if they get to the 9th winning….game is over. Bobby must be tired of 9th inning woes.
BTW, great night, Phillies losing, Muts losing. Brave won.
We will be tied with muts 3 GB the phillies and the fish putting the pressure on them (1GB). All this if Rangers can hold.
By DanR
June 27, 2008 10:18 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Campillo is at 2.54 in 67.1 innings. How many innings does a pitcher need to be “qualified”? Thanks
By Run Heap Run
June 27, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this
Hey will DOT take the holiday weekend off next week? Maybe Thursday be their last day until Monday? Please lord?
By Teddy Jack Eddy
June 27, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
I didn’t see this coming two weeks ago.I was thinking it could be over by the end of june.We should all thank the ”Phart n’ Phils” for stinking like a leaky sewer,we couldn’t do it without them.
By ncscoots
June 27, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this
Efrim, Medlen would have to buck some pretty long odds, for sure. The number of short, low-90s righties in MLB is tiny. There’s a reason those kind of guys don’t project…there just isn’t much track record for pitchers of that type making it. At least, these days. I don’t know if that’s self-fulfilling or not, but there it is.
By Run Heap Run
June 27, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this
The Mets pounded the Yankees today. Doc Holiday
I just noticed the next 2 games are day games. I hate Saturday day games.
By N8
June 27, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this
DanR
I’m not DOB, but I believe he has to have pitched at least 1 inning for each game played by his team. Meaning, as of tonight, he’d have to have pitched 80 innings.
4 or 5 more starts going around 7 innings would put him in the mix.
By FloridaBrave
June 27, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this
Efrim,
There’s an underrated prospect too. He’s flown through the minors- destroyed Rome, destroyed Myrtle Beach and he’s now starting to find his groove in Mississippi. I still think he’s projected as a reliever but he’s a guy you don’t hear a lot but is definitely a Top 15 prospect. Like you mentioned, he’s not very projectable with his size and I haven’t heard much about a third pitch, but I think he’s a lot closer to contributing than people think. I think he’ll be up when rosters are expanded and is a contributer out of our pen full-time next year.
By Doc Holliday
June 27, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this
DanR he needs 79.0 IP
By Doc Holliday
June 27, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this
Run Heap Run that was earlier…..9-0 right now yunks over muts.
By Efrim
June 27, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this
ncscoots
He has three pitches and his control is really good, but yes, the odds are definetly against him. Not sure why they moved him to starter. Braves have some nice pitchers other than Hanson at Mississippi with Medlen and Redmond. Probably bad end guys, I guess.
By FloridaBrave
June 27, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this
Jordan Schafer in 99 June At-Bats(as per Baseball America):
.299/.424/.531
That was before today though. Today he went 1-3 with an RBI Double and a BB.
We can’t keep the kid down much longer if he keeps it up. Especially with Blanco hitting .250 and not slugging much better.
By dru
June 27, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this
MGL, I know the BP’s numbers are great, and I can assure you I’m not a “negative nellie.” All I meant, whether it came across or not, was I wish we had some lights-out arms down there (like Gonzo appears to be). Not trying to be negative, just get nervous towards the end of the game.
By Run Heap Run
June 27, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
My bad Doc, I didn’t know they were playing a pair today.
By Glass Half Full (GHF)
June 27, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
QUESTION
Why does “The Bull” sometimes stream Braves audio while other times it country music during the games?
The reason I ask is, we’re heading to the beach for a week and none of the games will be televised in Florida (may have Sportsouth, but FSN airs the Rays and Marlins) and no Peachtree.
By Texas Brave
June 27, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this
Doc I would agree if the opposing team been spraying the ball all afternoon but they seemed pretty inept, although much credit goes to Jair and the defense. Or if it had been a good hitting team. Either Blaine or Will would have been able to shut the door on the Jays tonight. Also did you notice that non of the Jays had more than 8 home runs this year. Highly improbable come back.
By Wayne in Utah
June 27, 2008 11:04 PM | Link to this
I’m with you FloridaBrave on Schafer. I give him two more weeks. Kotsay next week, then Schafer in mid July, and maybe Diaz gets back right after the break. Problem is, what do you do with Brandon Jones if he keeps hitting? The more I think about it, I think you can forget Bonds, Nady and Bay. But then again, things do have a way of backfiring sometimes….
What we really need is someone who can catch one day a week, and be able to fill in as a decent pinch hitter too! With Diaz knee issues, maybe Infante will need to be our emergency catcher??? Has he ever caught before?
I also really like Medlen. One under 6 foot, low 90’s righty who did alright was Greg Maddux. Not saying Medlen is going to be another Doggie, but who knows???
I like our future with some of these kids, if we can keep Frank Wren from mortgaging the future for Bay or Holliday….
By DanR
June 27, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this
thanks N8 and Doc
By DanR
June 27, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this
Wagner is pitching the 9th for the Mets even thought they are down 9-0 to the Yankees. That seems odd. Hope the Rangers hold on against the Phillies. Will make for a pretty good night.
First time I’ve seen Gonzalez pitch. Pretty impressive by him and Jair tonight.
By jbutler
June 27, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this
Great outing from ‘ol JJJ. If the bats wake up and defense solidifies..there may be a march toward Oct. after all. Braves nation needs to realize what a great performance these pitchers are putting in - No one..not even N8 could’ve predicted this rotation- and topping the NL ERA to boot. Lay off Bobby Cox and take a minute to appreciate it.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this
Phillies are losing in the 8th. Braves would be three games out of first place if that holds.
By David O'Brien
June 27, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this
N8’s right — 1.0 inning per scheduled team game, 162 innings for the season to qualify.
By Scooter McNutts
June 27, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this
WOW JJJ!!!!!
20 years later it’s deja vu all over again for the Detroit Tigers
8-3 already & appears to be getting better as the season progresses. Tonight will hard to top.
By jbutler
June 27, 2008 11:26 PM | Link to this
Dan R I saw an interview w/Wagner when the whole Randolph firing happened and he said that he would ask to be put in even in blowouts sometimes just to stay sharp…In that whacked up clubhouse - whose to argue?
By Robin
June 27, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this
Good thing the Rangers got an insurance run in the bottom of the 8th. Werth just homered to get within one.
C’mon Rangers!
By Scooter McNutts
June 27, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this
Detroit Police Department looking into a rape case. Leading suspect is someone named F. Wren from Atlanta.
By Doc Holliday
June 27, 2008 11:28 PM | Link to this
Texas Braves
Please dont give me that “jays are a week team” stuff. Our team has found the most improbable ways to lose game in the last 3 innings this year, and you can include teams like pirates, reds, nats, into that mix.
You know no lead has been secure and no game has been a sure thing this year.
By Live from Yokohama
June 27, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this
One month of work isn’t enough to start pencilling in Schaefer as a factor this season. I think he’s going to be a fine player too, but there’s little reason to believe that he’s just going to dance into Atlanta and be a game-changer this year. How many rookies are?
By jbutler
June 27, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this
Scooter Hey…totally offensive- not even remotely funny.
By cabravesfan
June 27, 2008 11:35 PM | Link to this
Phillies just lost..Braves only 3 back- I know we have 2 left with the Jays but suddenly the 3 game series with the Phils starting Tuesday is HUGE
By TexasBrave
June 27, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this
Texas just beat the Phillies. We are 3 games back!!!
Go Braves!!!
By Lawrence
June 27, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this
The Braves do not need to trade for more starting pitching.Reyes,Hudson Campillo,Jurrgens and Morton will be fine,With Glavine and Hampton possibly returning at some point the team is ok with starters.And the releivers are doing a decent job also.Let these guys pitch win or lose.We don’t need Harden,Sabathia or any of the big salaried guys now.Live with the young guys like Reyes and Morton.Let them go like Smoltz and Glavine did when they started.And Campillo can flat out pitch.Great location and different speeds on his breaking pitches with a killer changeup.Diaz and Kotsay are coming back so we don’t need Xavier Nady or Jason Bay either.Corky Miller is a fine defensive catcher that handles young pitchers well.This team has always used and won with veterans like Todd Pratt,Charlie O’Brien,Henry Blanco and others.Corky fits that bill just fine.Francouer needs to step it up and get out of that funk he’s in.And finally now lets get to the manager.Most of you bloggers give him he!! but,the man wants to win more than anyone.He fights and roots for his team as hard as any manager out there.His teams love him and he loves his players.With the injuries this team has had its amazing that the Braves are only a couple of games under .500.Let Bobby Cox get his players back and healthy then watch out.The Braves will be in the hunt in September.
By Live from Yokohama
June 27, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this
DOB, no love for Asian rock? (Not to be confused with rock bu Asia, should you get lost in the heat of the moment).
OK, forgive the bad joke….
By Robin
June 27, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this
Texas holds on!
We’re 3 back!
By Doc Holliday
June 27, 2008 11:39 PM | Link to this
You just got to love this Pitching staff right now……. SP + BP.
I tell you, if this offense starts hitting some clutch, the team will be unstoppable.
About those rangers…..man, that team get 1 or 2 SP and they could get in the mix for the WC. Very good offense and D. They just need a pair of average starters and they could be very dangerous in a short series.
By Live from Yokohama
June 27, 2008 11:42 PM | Link to this
Scooter pretty repulsive sense of humor you have there, buddy.
By Doc Holliday
June 27, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this
Phillies……..no SP means no postseason, just ask the yankees……
Braves please wake up, nobody (other teams in the the division) wants the division flag, lets go get it for ourselves.
By TexasBrave
June 27, 2008 11:52 PM | Link to this
Doc got to agree the pitching is coming through lately. Now if we can get that offense going. The offense will get a little shot in the arm when Kotsay and Diaz returns. As much as I advocated for Diaz playing full time at the start of the season it does seem like a platoon would be in order upon his return. But who do you keep out of B. Jones and Blanco?
Prado will also be another shot in the arm for the bench upon his return. No brainer on who goes down there.
By Chop Chop
June 27, 2008 11:53 PM | Link to this
Doc Holliday,
The Yankees haven’t missed a postseason since 1993. Just ask them.
Open question to the blog:
It is possible to be sane AND be a Braves fan, right?
I’z jes’ wonderin’.
By Roman Gal
June 28, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this
By Colonel Lingus June 27, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this Following up on a question I received several times in yesterday’s chat: I spoke to someone in the Atlanta player development department regarding Julio Teheran, the 17-year-old Colombian right-hander playing for Danville in the Appalachian League. He was removed from his last start after experiencing “minor discomfort” in his right shoulder, and the team is going to have his arm checked out. They don’t expect to find anything major, but given how special his arm is, they decided to err on the side of caution.
I don’t know who this Lingus fellow is but he sounds like he might know what he’s talking about. Did you see this Efrim? Or am I just being too gullible?
By JEB
June 28, 2008 12:16 AM | Link to this
DOB You are right on about our pitching staff!
Just think about what we would have to listen to on this blog (from the “Negative / Fire the coach” gang) if we were any worse than what we are now!!
GEEZ - it would be unbearable!
By KC
June 28, 2008 12:17 AM | Link to this
IF we can take care of business against the B-Jays (win the series or sweep), and if we can then take at least 2 of 3 from the Phils… we’ll be in great shape.
We still have the Mets in front of us, but keep in mind that immediately following the Braves/Phillies series, the Mets and Phils open a 4 game series starting Friday. So we’ll have a chance to gain ground on one or both of those teams next weekend.
By Dru from Mobile
June 28, 2008 12:20 AM | Link to this
Doc…. Tex looks like he’s ready to take us whether or not the folks on his back are
Go Braves!
By Doc Holliday
June 28, 2008 12:24 AM | Link to this
Chop Chop but they wont make it this year. Thats what it meant.
By KC
June 28, 2008 12:47 AM | Link to this
I vote we give Frenchy a week off. Seriously… I think it could really help him to hit the reset button.
What’s that? I don’t get a vote?
Oh well.
By Chop Chop
June 28, 2008 12:52 AM | Link to this
There’s been so much negativity here because of the hype given to the Braves this offseason. People were being told by reputable baseball scribes such as Jayson Stark and Ken Rosenthal that this Braves team would be in the World Series.
I didn’t believe this team had that kind of greatness in it even if it had stayed healthy, but the injuries and sometimes lackadaisical effort in the field/on the basepaths/in the batter’s box have really combined to rub a good number of fans/bloggers the wrong way. In spite of this, I think the Braves are in good shape. I believe they’ve found at least one top-of-the-line starter in Jair Jurrjens. Two other young starters have definitely shown some promise (Jo-Jo and Morton). The lineup is erratic, but I think it’s actually a good thing that the Braves are needing their bench to give them something this year. It develops some depth and game readiness. I like seeing guys like Brandon Jones and Gregor Blanco contributing to wins. Besides, they need to know that they can win without Chipper. The Braves will need more of that if they want to go anywhere this year.
However, while there are some very positive signs, I think the Braves still have a lot to work to do to prove that they have what it takes to win a division AND do anything in the postseason. Since that is the standard I still hold this organization to, I’m not going to jump for joy when they win a couple of games in a row.
(Yeah. I’m one of those fans that still expects to win big. It’s not necessarily realistic, but that doesn’t matter. The expectations will linger until the Braves meet them…or until several losing seasons beat those expectations out of me.)
Of course, if the Braves can really begin to improve their overall play from week to week and month to month, I’ll happily be forced right back into fist-pumping through the good times and throwing things around during the bad ones. Otherwise, I’ll just watch the games and come here to see the craziness that ensues after each stupendously amazing win and soul-crushing loss.
By Gil in Mechanicsville
June 28, 2008 12:58 AM | Link to this
Wayne No such thing as a pitching overload… :-) Trust me on that one…
By Jason
June 28, 2008 1:07 AM | Link to this
DOB, sorry for the late re-reply. The Hold Steady’s new album is out on Itunes, but not in stores until mid July. But I’m glad to hear that you dig their other stuff. You, sir, have excellent taste (and I agree with most of your top 25 of 2008)
By Carolina Matt
June 28, 2008 1:35 AM | Link to this
Anyone who labels Neil Young “The Man” certainly cannot be from the South.
By David O'Brien
June 28, 2008 1:37 AM | Link to this
Jason, I saw them put on a terrific show at The Earl in Atlanta a couple years back. The Hold Steady is a great live band. I had “Separation Sunday” and the most recent album from ‘06, “Boys and Girls in America.” Then went back and got The Hold Steady “Almost Killed Me,” which was their first one, I think. That’s also a rockin’ album with similar smart lyrics and garage-rock/punk sound. They often remind me of very early Springsteen.
By rupert
June 28, 2008 1:44 AM | Link to this
good win, gotta like the chances tomorrow with huddy going, the jays have some big internal sutff going on with the gm, the old manager etc, team is a little bit of a mess…. still gotta beat em though.
3 back with the lineup the braves have thrown out there this week is pretty impressive, the real question is where is the bottom for the phils, i discount the marlins, too young and there ship is shakey, the mets too are dangerous, but only in a series or two, not over 3 months, still the braves need a right handed outfield back, sooner than later, and to get healthy, not impossible, just depends on when the phils hit bottom and if they bounce ( i think the braves hit bottom in chicago by the way)
i think if kotsay stays healthy shafer stays down till sept. atleast, if he goes on dl again then call the kid up, blanco is what he is, anderson would be interesting too…
By ColoradoBravesFan
June 28, 2008 1:53 AM | Link to this
By Coach (Put up, shut up, do or die)June 27, 2008 9:36 PM I would love to explain in explicit detail exactly how Lenny Dykstra, Howard Johnson, Frank Thomas and Barry Bonds could have all been in a Braves uniform at the beginning of their careers but for the decision making prowess of Bobby Cox as the Braves GM.
This is total Horsesh*t. If these guys named above were all available in the begining of their careers that means that every other GM not just bobby Cox, showed their decision making prowess Prowess also.
Looking back years and years after the fact and saying Bobby should have done this or should have done that is stupid. Makeing a statement that Bobby Cox should have know to get these guys, when nobody, especially other GMs did it either seems foolish.
Go Braves…
By Mark T.
June 28, 2008 2:02 AM | Link to this
The Braves do NEED to acquire another power bat, and definitely a RH’d one. In case we haven’t all being following, the starting corner of’s we used on opening day have provided very little power and barely, if any, clutch hitting. So we can’t on Diaz to a save our lineup with his mere preference
By David O'Brien
June 28, 2008 2:07 AM | Link to this
Run Heap Run: If they DL Chipper now, they could only retro it a couple days to the day after his last pinch-hit appearance. So I don’t think they will. I think he’ll be ready to play by Tuesday. I could be wrong, but that’s the sense I get, after talking to him. He’s made a lot of progress in past week.
Oh, and do you really think Toronto’s an “armpit?” Have to disagree whoeheartedly. Pretty clean city, especially compared to most in the U.S. Nice waterfront area, a lot of cool people, great restaurants, and twice as many record stores as most American cities have. Don’t know how all these indie record stories survive here and can’t survive in the U.S….
Carolina Matt: Is that the rule for you? OK. Probably quite a few on the blog who’d disagree with you, but that’s cool. You got your rules, your principles, and a man’s got to live by those. Me, I’ll throw on some Cinnamon Girl or Rockin’ In The Free World and enjoy sublime brilliance….
ppaddy, big Don at EllaGuru will see this message and if he hasn’t seen your note about not accepting PayPal, then I’m sure he’ll do a find and go back to your comment. So you just told him yourself…
Robert, the REM show was simply outstanding.
By TexasBrave
June 28, 2008 2:32 AM | Link to this
Well with tonights win we no longer have the least amount of road wins with 12. San Diego has 11 wins. We also no longer hold the distinction of having the worst road record. Colorado at 12 - 29.
I hope this means things are looking up.
By Wayne in Utah
June 28, 2008 2:33 AM | Link to this
I’ve been sitting around tonight, watching some tube, and just being plain lazy.
Got a couple of off season potential trading partners for the Bravos. This is assuming we let Tex walk, and guys like Smoltz and Glavine do not return.
How bout enticing Colorado to take KJ for a few of their bench guys, like Baker (Clemson guy!!), Spilborghs and maybe Torrealba for backup catcher. Baker would be your stick who could cover 1B, 3B, 2B, and the corner OF positions. Spilborghs would split time with Brandon Jones in left, and give some relief in center.
Second, I think with the way they have sunk so low, would Houston be willing to give up Berkman (very decent contract for the next 3 years) for a large package that would include players like: Francoeur, Gorkys, Soriano, Campillo, and another 2-3 lower level prospects. Is that too little/too much??? It is late, and I might be off my rocker. Also, Houston might be so tied to Lance that he might be untouchable, I just don’t know.
You got your stick for protecting Chipper (and Berkman doesn’t go as hot and cold as Tex). You got your strong corner backup. You make it a free for all between Escobar, Lillibridge (I still think he is going to be a player) and Prado for second and short.
This lineup works if Schafer is able to come in and play like we hope he can. I would keep Kotsay around for RF, but would want a good backup in case his back flares up again.
I haven’t figured out what to do with Diaz, Anderson or Blanco.
Also, in my scenario, we would need one of the following starters to come through next year: Smoltz (long shot), Hanson, James, Hampton (thought I would throw him in for some negative responses!!), or Lerew.
We would still have enough cash to pick up a back of the rotation starter, or a decent bat for RF maybe.
Probably time to go to bed. The more I think about the Berkman thing, the more I think the Astros never make that trade.
Whaddyya think???
Nite all.
(get em tomorrow Huddy!!)
By Jeff in Alabama
June 28, 2008 2:33 AM | Link to this
RonH Campillo is at 2.54 in 67.1 innings. How many innings does a pitcher need to be “qualified”?
First post on the MIB blog… been reading it for two years. ‘Bout time, huh? Anyway, according to BaseballReference.com, it’s 1 inning pitched for every game the team has played, rounded to the nearest integer. The Braves played game 81 tonight.
Trying to project when Campillo will qualify for the leaders list takes some guesswork. If you assume he will make 7 innings per start on average, and that he pitches every five games, then he has to make 7 more starts to qualify. (In his last three starts he has gone 8, 6.1 and 7 innings respectively, for an average of 7.) That would be game 115 for the Braves, and he would have 116 innings. Incidentally, game 115 is at Arizona on August 7.
Of course, if the 5th starter (who is that right now?) is skipped due to off days, and the rotation is reset coming out of the all-star break, Campillo could qualify one start sooner. The big assumption is that he will still be in the rotation come August. If he keeps pitching the way he has, I don’t see him back in the bullpen.
By Moby Grape
June 28, 2008 2:33 AM | Link to this
Did you watch the Braves back then? I did all the time. Smoltz was occasionally brilliant but always erraticBFRockies
yeah he used to find ways to lose late in games that he pitched well in early. That is after all why he went to a shrink. That guy should be in the Braves HOF too(Jack Llewelyn)
By Wayne in Utah
June 28, 2008 2:44 AM | Link to this
I’ve heard Toronto is a great town. Only been to Montreal, but was not there long enough to get a feel for the town. (highly controlled meeting environment)
As for Neil Young, the dude ticked off lots of southern folks. Personally, I am not a NY fan, but if I let musicians tick me off by their lyrics, I would probably only own Barry Manilow CD’s! (bad cheese for sure!!)
Probably stated this before, but my favorite groups of all time are (no particular order) Yes, Chicago, Led Zeppelin, Moody Blues, Eagles, Hank Williams Sr. and Hues Corporation!
(just kidding about the Hues Corporation, although I fondly remember my dad singing “Don’t Rock the Boat” at Myrtle Beach when I was a teen! The girls we were trying to impress thought our dad was “cool”.)
OK, it’s obvious I should be in bed, and not blogging this crap!!
By Wayne in Utah
June 28, 2008 2:50 AM | Link to this
N8 Did I remember you stating that you are a picker?? (no, not nose picker)
If so, I have a guitar that I was given in 1971 that is probably worth more than both of our lives together!
By Quack Quack
June 28, 2008 3:01 AM | Link to this
This year late & close: .282
Jason Bay has played in 76 Ballgames this year. He has 35 XBH. Just about half of those games (37) have experienced late & close situations. Bay only has 5 XBH in those situations in 37 AB (56 PA). 30 of Bays 35 XHB have come in non- close & late situations. BobbysCox
One of the things that I find irritating about your posts is that you are always quoting stats based on extremely small sample sizes as if they mean something…they mean absolutely nothing other that to show what already happened, they are way too small to base any kind of prediction on dude. 30-50-70 PAs , whatever those are nothing sample sizes. Stats just don’t work that way guy.
By Jason
June 28, 2008 3:13 AM | Link to this
DOB, I went and saw them in Birmingham last year and they were incredible. Then I saw them at Variety a few months ago and it was not as good. But all 4 albums of theirs are really strong, in my opinion. On this new one, there is one song where I feel like they channel Guns N Roses (specifically November Rain, which is one of my favorite songs ever). I’ll look forward to seeing your thoughts on the album when you get it. BTW, I love hearing you on 680 during the week. Really insightful stuff.
Another band to check out…Okkervil River. I find I really like some of their songs (but there are many I’m ambivalent towards).
By BA
June 28, 2008 3:16 AM | Link to this
Nice post (2:33) Jeff in Alabama. I’m of the opinion that Campillo has had the best season of any of these starters, considering what he’s working with. I agree there’s no way they take him out of the rotation. Even if Shamus Thacker’s favorite lefthander makes it back. I think they’d send Morton down. I was hoping they might call up releiver Zack Schreiber from Richmond but I just read he’s been put on the DL with a sore elbow. Brother.
By BA
June 28, 2008 3:20 AM | Link to this
Braves signed catcher Jason Phillips from some independent league. They assigned him to Richmond. Career .249 hitter. Corky haters rejoice!
By CharlieAlphaBravo
June 28, 2008 3:25 AM | Link to this
A note about day-night double-headers:
Baseball is a sport that will theoretically play indefinitely in order to avoid a tie (excluding the great “All Star Debacle of ‘02). But two teams involved in one of these two-headed dragons of Baseball lore will likely end their day in a draw.
… Well, unless you’re rolling over the ol’ Metropolitans en route to a four game sweep, that is.
By Quack Quack
June 28, 2008 3:27 AM | Link to this
June 27, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this
Thanks Bobby’s Cox for giving us the numbers that count. They answer the question about which player is more likely to help the Braves in the area they are most weak in offensively and it is clearly Nady.Kirk
As a statistician I say Hogwash. The numbers are too damn small to mean anything.
Don’t y’all EVER learn? Look how well Frenchy hit in clutch for two year worth of sample size, only to completely fall apart this year. Y’all need to take a course or two on stats before slinging them around so glibly.
What BC posted is useless for reliable prediction. another example Chipper hit .248 for an entire year,now he’s hitting almost .400 for halk a year.
Sample sizes on situational hitting are too small to be of much value at all as predictors. The bigger those sample sizes become the closer they regress to a player’s norm.
You are doing yourself a disservice to concentrate on such limited data. Over the long run the players who are the better hitters are going to be the players who are the most productive. Over the short term all stats are totally worthless as predictors.
By BA
June 28, 2008 3:49 AM | Link to this
I was scrolling through, and tonight was a particulary good blog. My favorites? DOB’s 8:39- like an old-school Smoltz splitter- NASTY! Also, how did you know what the Homer Simpson noise would look like in print? Classic.
By Moby Grape
June 28, 2008 4:01 AM | Link to this
Jordan Schafer in 99 June At-Bats(as per Baseball America):
.299/.424/.531
FloridaBrave
nice numbers especially the .424, but I think he needs to stay in the minors at least until callup time. Let’s get Bay. And yes I would give up Morton for him.
By Moby Grape
June 28, 2008 4:18 AM | Link to this
Whaddyya think???Wayne
I wouldn’t trade for any Rockies hitters. They are almost all mediocre away from Coors. As for Berkman? He’s one of my absolute Favorites actually has better numbers than Chipper except for BA, but I really doubt that Houston would trade him since he is still relatively cheap.
By Coach (Put up, shut up, do or die)
June 28, 2008 4:20 AM | Link to this
Well, I tried to let it go, but NO ! some knuckle dragging Neanderthal just had to call me out. Coloradobravesfan, here is your horse sh!t.
In May of 1990, Bobby Cox the Braves GM at the time tried in vain to trade Tom Glavine, David Justice and Tommy Greene to the Red Sox for Mike Greenwell. Thank God the Sox turned it down !
Of course, lets not forget the signing of Nick Esasky to a three year 6.5 million dollar contract in 1990. Esasky played all of nine games before succumbing to vertigo and he NEVER played baseball again.
During the December 1988 winter meetings Cox tried to trade Dale Murphy, but when the Mets only offered Howard Johnson and Lenny Dykstra they were turned down because Cox wanted the two of them plus pitcher David West and infielder Keith Miller.
Dale Murphy and Tommy Greene were traded two years later for Jeff Parrett, Victor Rosario and Jim Vatcher. Cox overestimated the trade value of Dale Murphy the first time.
Then of course we have the infamous 1989 draft, where all of the Braves scouts had Frank Thomas at the top of their draft boards. What did Cox do? he drafted the immortal Tyler Houston and the rest as we know, is history.
And in 1990, the Braves were going to draft Todd Van Poppel with the first pick in the draft. Except that Van Poppel didn’t want to play for Atlanta and they drafted Chipper Jones instead.
Last but not least was the Andres Thomas for Barry Bonds trade that fell through back in 1988. Four years later in 1992, the Pirates Jimmy Leyland would wreck the Braves second attempt to acquire Bonds.
Hell , these are just a few of the many brain farts cooked up by Bobby Cox when he was the Braves GM.
I mean c’mon, use your damn common sense, people ! Add Frank Thomas, Barry Bonds, Lenny Dykstra and Howard Johnson to the Braves offense in 1988 to 1990 and work your way forward from there. How many Championships got away thanks to the mismanagement of Bobby Cox?
HOW MANY ??????
THERE YOU GO, THATS RIGHT, FIGURE IT OUT ALREADY !
Cox has one World Championship to his credit.
The man has cost this great franchise at least a HALF DOZEN CHAMPIONSHIPS ! AT THE VERY LEAST, IF NOT EVEN MORE THAN THAT !
WHAT KIND of damn, foolish, idiotic, moron’s would try to defend such horrific job performance???
Um, that would be the ENTIRE ATLANTA JOURNAL CONSTITUTION and all their crack smoking employee’s !
The Braves during the nineteen nineties should have been winning World Championship after World Championship and becoming the greatest Dynasty in major league baseball history since the Yankees of the 1960’s.
So go ahead and make more excuses for Bobby Cox, I’ll come up with even more dirt for all to read.
By Pete H.
June 28, 2008 4:40 AM | Link to this
Oh, and do you really think Toronto’s an “armpit?” Have to disagree whoeheartedly. Pretty clean city, especially compared to most in the U.S. Nice waterfront area, a lot of cool people, great restaurants, and twice as many record stores as most American cities have. Don’t know how all these indie record stories survive here and can’t survive in the U.S….
Even Braves boards have their share of “morans” DOB. Toronto is just Chicago North and I love the place.
I’m sure the buttboy eats Freedom Bacon.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 28, 2008 5:01 AM | Link to this
I just got home from my weekend gig as a bouncer at a sportsbar/club in Atlanta. We had the game on tonight and everyone was impressed with JJJ and his 23 inning streak of no earned runs. We even had a lot of people watching the replay who had seen it the first time and were still enjoying the effort tonight from Tex,Jones,and JJJ. It’s great to be around REAL fans who talk baseball and have legitimate opinions and theory’s than to have this kind of discourse that I’m reading thru.
Not that it will sink in, BUT — the BIGGEST reason why the Braves had their remarkable streak and only 1 WS win is summed up with one tiny comment — WILD CARD TEAMS and Payroll. No other team that had a decade and a half of dominance (except the spendaholic Yankee’s of the 90’s) had to go thru the extra level of playoffs. And the Braves did play them in the WS so they were there just didn’t win. Add that in with Time-Warners spending controls and the job the the Braves have done really becomes even more incredible.
By the way most of you rate success - you would say that the Patriot’s loss in the Superbowl was Belicheck’s failure rather than the the Giants success. It’s just stupid and getting so tiresome that I think it is making this blog less popular than it used to be. (Sorry DOB, don’t take that personally.)
I believe that the certain few (NOT you N8) are just here b/c they have issues and this anonymous forum gives them the ability to feel like they matter more than they really do. It really is becoming comical and I actually laugh out loud reading it. SAD but TRUE.
YO N8 - NCSCOOTS - BRAVEHEART - KC - CHOP CHOP - UGA-B You know that I said back a couple of weeks ago that the Bravos were going to scrap their way back into the fray starting then and I believe they have proven me correct. Just giving myself a pat on the back. LOL
GO BRAVOS !!!!
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 28, 2008 5:19 AM | Link to this
IGNORE THAT MAN BEHIND THE CURTAIN !!!!
IGNORE THAT MAN BEHIND THE CURTAIN !!!!
Coach’s rhetoric is as transparent as the Wizard of Oz. He now posts his comments very late at night so that he can have the last word - supposedly.
And his constant use of the term knuckle dragging Neanderthal is just as boring and overused as his opinion. SAD but TRUE.
By MAV
June 28, 2008 5:25 AM | Link to this
Coach,
First your an idiot who has no business even discussing the Braves. Second, all the b****** you just MADE up is ridiculous. The Braves always wantes to draft Chippr first and not VanPoppel. Plus they never trire to sop Murph in 88. Stop smokin tht crack and just become a Red Sox fan and annoy there FANS.
By Bobby's Cox
June 28, 2008 6:07 AM | Link to this
Dear Quack Quack
If you are so interested in my posts, then you’d see other posts that read something like, I just don’t see Frenchy turning it around. He swings at everything, swings for the fence, tries to do too much, has bad mechanics, etc…Opinion based on observation.
I’ll agree with you that stats aren’t everything. You can bloop runners home on a check swing, and that has less credence in my book. However, there are some intangibles you can’t quantify with numbers, and I think Nady has that and Bay doesn’t. I like looking at how guys approach at-bats, how deep they can go into counts, can they work a count and foul off pitches? That’s something I look for when I watch baseball.
Seriously dude, if you read my comments, you’d see that I said I’ve followed Bay for years, you’d see that I’d prefer Nady because it looks like he’s turned the corner and turned into a nice veteran bat. I have opinions, but I back it up with stats AND my reasoning.
It’s merely an opinion. It’s speculation, it’s baseball talk. That’s what i’m here for. Feel free to disagree. Heck, the braves may not even be looking at that route. The may already have inquired and been turned down or Pitt wanted too much. They could be looking in KC for help or Seattle.
76 games this year is not a small sample size. That’s nearly half a baseball season, which is why i’m coming down so hard on Frenchy right now if you read my posts. As it relates to Bay & Nady, it’s not 35 games the stats cover, it’s the whole season. That’s my point. The stat you mentioned shows where Bay gets his RBI’s, but more importantly where he is not. It’s not late & close games. You can argue that’s because Bay helps put those games out of reach and that’s fine. I’ll commend you for that opinion. However, I feel this team needs a player that steps up in late & close situations. I don’t care if Nady went cold all game but delivered in the clutch. I think the braves need a guy like that, not a guy that you scratch your head & wonder where all the RBI came from (like Tex before tonight) It’s my opinion. Did you read that comment?
BTW, I gave career numbers as well. Nady was situationally better overall with those stats too.
And, teams often read into brief success. Do you think KC did with Grienke? The Braves with Campillo? STL with Ludwick? Tex with Hamilton? Cin with Keppinger, Volquez, Bruce? They assume the kid has turned the corner and think it’s worth a shot to play them. Small sample size, or has the player really turned the corner?
There’s a topic for you to debate. How long is long enough for a player to show they can produce consistently at a higher level of play?
By Bobby's Cox
June 28, 2008 6:18 AM | Link to this
Quack
Here’s my post you’re questioning
Again, how does this post favor a small sample size? If Bay’s .282 2008 late & close numbers regressed back to his .219 career number (which i gave), would you want him on this team?
If Nady’s ‘08 numbers did, they’re still better than Bay’s.
The post gives reasoning as to why I think Nady has turned the corner. I even said BOTH would be better than what we have. Read the whole post man, the read the 2 i followed with.
By Bobby's Cox
June 28, 2008 6:27 AM | Link to this
By the way most of you rate success - you would say that the Patriot’s loss in the Superbowl was Belicheck’s failure rather than the the Giants success
Well said Captain Caveman
By Bobby's Cox
June 28, 2008 7:16 AM | Link to this
I guess we can all forget chipper hitting .400 this year.
According to statistics, Chipper will probably regress halfway between his current numbers and what he is currently batting. So, he’ll finish the year at .352 or so. Well this is what is normal for OBP, but since BA is a similar stat to OBP, i figure that margin of error is similar as well, even though you have to know what the general spread in skills are for the whole MLB population.
Here’s a good article on baseball stats, sample sizes in baseball statistics, the tendency of stats regressing towards means, etc…
Have fun with that Quack. As a statistician, maybe you work some numbers for us.
I just don’t buy this though. For the most part, the numbers will even out. But there’s still too many variables in baseball. Lefty pitchers, righty. Day games, night games. Weather conditions. Quality of pitching, player personalities, their reactions & tendancies in certain situations, i.e. if they’re able to focus more or if they are nervous in certain situations. If the braves face more lefties in the league than other teams, then are they bound by the same margin of errors as the MLB population in certain skill sets?
Again, stats aren’t everything. They paint a good picture, but there’s also a lot they do not say. That’s what makes this game so great. We can speculate all we want about stats, players, situational play, trade rumors, etc…but in the end we never know what’s going to happen.
By ncscoots
June 28, 2008 7:34 AM | Link to this
Cave, you’ll get no argument from me, my friend, LOL. During all the adversity of this season, my mantra here has been that the error factor in predicting success OR failure is much too high at early points of the year.
A team’s season evolves at a glacial pace, after all. It may take 40 games to determine if low performance is a “slump” or “lack of ability”; if high performance is “a fluke” or “excellent ability”. Most fans can’t take that…makes them antsy.
Players return from the DL in drips and drabs, you don’t notice that a guy is surging or slumping until several games have gone by, pitchers and hitters make unnoticed incremental adjustments, yada yada yada. There simply aren’t single, noticeable cataclysmic events in baseball to which you can point and say, “Yes, that was the moment.” It’s the building upon of smaller moments, good AND bad, that determine the team’s fate.
And a lot of folks here tend to scrutinize every pitch, every AB, every game, and every series and project the results as the season in microcosm. Like looking at a single data point in a graph, instead of looking at the graph itself.
So, good on ya and a tip o’ the hat. While I’m not yet in either camp of “World Series bound” or “The season is over”, LOL, I do think the Braves have a chance to make some noise when they get a little healthier offensively. And if the wheel of karma does turn, these guys are due for a big old bushel-basket-full of good luck.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
June 28, 2008 7:35 AM | Link to this
Here’s the straight deal of the game, 80% (roughly) of all wins/losses are exactly that - a win or a loss. That’s all. Maybe 20% of the time can you point to ONE play or decision and say “that cost us the game”.
I’ve seen it all and done it all and I’m telling you that if you can’t accept that every game has to have a winner and loser just b/c that’s the point of the game — well than no amount of explanation is going to help you see it any clearer.
Baseball is the greatest game ever invented that can be played by anyone and everyone. It’s supposed to inspire you and frustrate you all at the same time. It’s designed to make things as even as possible for the offense and the defense. That’s why 2 teams can play a game that ends 15-8 in the afternoon, and then play another that night that ends 1-0.
The human element is what makes it so fascinating. I’ve made errors on routine plays that I could make in my sleep, I’ve made highlight plays on balls I shouldn’t have been able to reach, I’ve looked foolish against a pitcher with a ragged out arm, and had game-winning hits against the best the other team had to offer. And on every one of those plays I was putting forth the same 100% effort that I was taught to do.
I’m not talking to anyone in particular when I say that there is a certain level of just downright mean and nasty criticism on here that goes beyond all logic and reason and gets into the weird and despicable.
Of course in my line of work I deal with as$holes on a nightly basis. I just tossed ‘em out and tell them to enjoy themselves elsewhere. On here I just ignore them b/c they can only bother you if you let them.
Now once again for my peeps:
GO BRAVOS !!!!!!!!!!
By old man
June 28, 2008 8:08 AM | Link to this
Never posted before! instaed of conatcts does Frenchy need medication? It appears he has an attention disorder. Also why to the Braves continue to employee Terry Pendelton. He was a great player and is very popular but a terrible coach. The Braves haven’t had a good hitting team in his tenure. McCann and Chipper go to the fathers for advice when they are slumping. Folks watch the Red Sox who have a plan each time they go to the plate. Working the count is a foriegn phrase for Pendelton.
By ncscoots
June 28, 2008 8:18 AM | Link to this
Jurrjens commenting on last night: “I didn’t have my best fastball.”
Holy Cornelia. I assume he was talking about his four-seamer, but the kid thinks he could pitch BETTER?!?
By Will
June 28, 2008 8:24 AM | Link to this
With Jurrjens and also Gorkys Hernandez playing well in the minors i think we can offically say the Braves FLEECED the Tigers in the Renteria trade. It definitely turned out well for the Braves the last time the Tigers made a big mistake and traded the Braves a great young pitcher for a proven veteran!
By David O'Brien
June 28, 2008 8:28 AM | Link to this
ncscoots, yes, he was talking about four-seamer. He said he had a good sinker all night, obviously what he was using to get most of those groundballs.
But he might have been a bit modest about his four-seamer (straight) fastball. Looked pretty good to me, and Cox said they thought it looked harder than the stadium radar gun had it (gun generally red 91-92 mph).
Regardless, he pitched his butt off and had very good location with his fastball and got ahead in counts against most hitters, the key.
By mark
June 28, 2008 8:30 AM | Link to this
Braves have their record mainly for lack of hitting when it counts(Se Francour)and some sloppy defense. This is things great coaching could help with…Lot of injuries yes makes you wonder how fragile these well paid men are..I just dont remember so many players having these problems so much 15 years ago…I dont know..maybe they are doing something different..
By David O'Brien
June 28, 2008 8:41 AM | Link to this
Capt Caveman: I agree with your thoughts on Braves payroll and impact of wild-card teams over the past decade.
but you lost me with this: “By the way most of you rate success - you would say that the Patriot’s loss in the Superbowl was Belicheck’s failure rather than the the Giants success. It’s just stupid and getting so tiresome that I think it is making this blog less popular than it used to be. (Sorry DOB, don’t take that personally.)”
Caveman, at the risk of patting self and Carroll on backs, the blog in recent weeks and months gets far more comments and many more “page hits” (industry term) than we’ve ever gotten at any time since its introduction. (And, I might add, with far fewer of the grade-school personal attacks than we had before a certain few people were either banned or left the blog voluntarily — and mercifully.)
So when speaking of its “popularity,” you should probably confine that to its popularity with yourself. In other words, speak to how much you, or your friends you’ve discussed it with, either like or don’t like it. But leave it at that. Because your comment is otherwise blatantly erroneous.
By Quack Quack
June 28, 2008 8:53 AM | Link to this
I just don’t buy this though. For the most part, the numbers will even out. But there’s still too many variables in baseball. Lefty pitchers, righty. Day games, night games. Weather conditions. Quality of pitching, player personalities, their reactions & tendancies in certain situations, i.e. if they’re able to focus more or if they are nervous in certain situations. If the braves face more lefties in the league than other teams, then are they bound by the same margin of errors as the MLB population in certain skill sets?
Again, stats aren’t everything. They paint a good picture, but there’s also a lot they do not say. That’s what makes this game so great. We can speculate all we want about stats, players, situational play, trade rumors, etc…but in the end we never know what’s going to happen. BC
I sounded a little harsher than I meant to so I’m sorry about that. My point was that stats AREN’T everything especially in smaller sample sizes. half a season is a small sample size in baseball. Look at the variation from full season to full season. Chipper .248 for a full year. Now a half season of .400.
Players do tend to regress toward the norm as sample sizes get larger but there is no way to know at what point that might happen. IF Chipper’s last two seasons are making up for that .248 season it has taken quite a while hasn’t it?
I did pay attention to your arguments BC and though I don’t know how much I agree with them I place more stock in them than in a stats based comparison based on inadequate sample size re certain situations. Like I tried to point out with Frenchy, he had two full seasons plus of rather successful hitting in “clutch” situations. But this year he is terrible which should not be too surprising, he is regressing to the norm to some extent. It may continue or it may settle back into a better groove. I hesitate to use him as a definitive example because I believe some of his “clutch” failure is just part of his overall failure in most every dept. this year.
As for where Chipper will end up there are just too many variables and stats are just not that precise. He has hit .360 or so for over a year. Is he in fact a better hitter than he used to be? Is the extra emphasis on studying pitchers now instead of just his own at-bats helping to up his game to a new level?Is the change in his approach toward a singles hitter(exaggeration) having an effect and will he continue to hit like that or go back to trying for more power now that .400 is over? Is he just balancing out that .248 year? We can’t really know how much if anything those different possibilities impact the situation. Whatever we say is really going to be mostly a guess.
I think he has a chance to be in the .360s if he can stay mostly healthy, but I really can’t back that up with stats. I hope that he wins a batting title cause he has never led the league in an official catagory if IIRC and because I am tired of seeing him lose to Coors poseurs.
I have no real horse in the Nady/Bay race, I’d be happy with either one. I think Bay is the better hitter thus I think over the long run he will outperform Nady in production, But as we all know we aren’t talking about the long run, likely a year and a half.
I also like Bay better because he tends to do better in the second half and Nady tends to do less, but that is the kind of thing that can just flat change at any time.
Nady would likely be cheaper in prospects though I suspect that the Pirates are going to milk them both for as much as they can get. In fact if I were they I’m not certain that I would trade either one of them. They have an impressive outfield right now no doubt and I think both are signed thru 09, is that correct? If so I would perhaps wait until next year unless overwhelmed by an offer.
By j
June 28, 2008 9:09 AM | Link to this
Hello, First off, way to get a Cowboy Junkies reference into a Baseball blog. Jair looked amazing last night. Wow. That Renteria trade does not seem so crazy. Makes you wonder how much could be gotten for Teixeira ? I wish we could resign him. However, Boras is going to be wanting something in the 1-2 Billion range. I suppose we will see if Liberty Media is serious about payroll rising. Dave, you asked me on another post, about how many people did I think went to Athens because of R.E.M and the general music scene. I think it to be a sizable contingent. When I was in school, the Elephant Six collective were really gaining steam. I miss being able to see Neutral Milk Hotel at the fabulous 40 Watt Club. And Olivia Tremor Control, et al. The Trinity Sessions is a great album. Margo Timmins has one of the great voices. Cheers, J
By Run Heap Run
June 28, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this
Even Braves boards have their share of “morans” DOB. Toronto is just Chicago North and I love the place
I was in Toronto in the dead of winter, maybe that’s the difference but I hated it and that’s my opinion. Classy of you to throw out insults when someone disagrees with you over something so trivial.
By TommyP
June 28, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this
I’ll tell you what, I echo the sentiments of DOB about the blog’s recent success. This thing fills up with comments faster than ever and it is a MUCH more enjoyable read without the childishness that used to appear often.
I quit reading for awhile but came back and this thing is awesome now.
I’ve often thought it’s a good idea to skip a starter’s spot in the rotation as you get to midseason. Of course, you need 6+ starters to do that but I think the Braves will be able to and SHOULD do this with all of their starters.
With Jojo, Morton, Campillo and Jurrjens, it’s to limit the total innings of all 4 young starters. Without looking, I’m sure none of them have surpassed, say, 160 innings in a season.
With Hudson, I’d do this later in the season as he’s used to a heavy workload. However, I’m sure he’ll feel as fresh as ever with one skipped start.
We have Glavine coming back to help with this and, God willing, Hampton.
When these two are healthy again, no way I send Jojo down and if Morton keeps impressing, I’d keep him in the rotation.
This will probably sound like sacrelige (sp?) but I’d put Campillo in the pen as a long man and jettison Bennett. Hampton can go to the minors and further prove he’s ready.
By David O'Brien
June 28, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this
Run Heap Run: What on earth are you talking about? How did I “insult” you in my response to your comment about Toronto? I just went back and looked at it again, at 2:07 a.m.
How could that possibly be construed as an insult?
Talk about sensitive. Wow. If you consider that an insult…
By David O'Brien
June 28, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this
Speaking of insults, if any poster warrants them, it’s Coach and specifically his 4:20 a.m. diatribe. But it’s so over-the-top absurd, better to just let it stand on its own merits, no response required.
(Dude, seriously: Maybe you should have medication at the ready today, in case the Braves win. Don’t want your blood pressure to spike.)
By Salty
June 28, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this
DOB Run Heap Run was referring to Pete H’s 4:40 crap reply, not yours.
By Will
June 28, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this
TommyP, Have to disagree about Campillo in the bullpen i dont think that would be a good idea. I dont expect one big league inning out of Hampton this season and also who knows if Glavine will ever get totally healthy again this season. I think the Braves are way better off if these younger starters can continue to pitch well. Other then Smoltz (who is obviously not back this season) i am not even worried about Glavine or Hampton getting healthy.
By RedEyedAndBlue
June 28, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this
DOB -
Not that one blogger is sufficient evidence to prove your point, but I came back to the blog after an extended absence and was pleased at quality of the blog comments and the lack of childish remarks.
By TommyP
June 28, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this
Will: Good thoughts but I’m basing it all on the premise that Glavine comes back totally healthy.
If Hampton is healthy and pitches well in the minors, he’s coming up. You can’t pay that much money for him to finish the year in the minors if he’s ready to go.
By Notewise
June 28, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this
DOB, Any chance all these missed at bats will cost Chipper a chance at the year end batting title?? How many are usually needed to qualify??
By Deep Throat (what does 'Coach' coach anyway?)
June 28, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this
How bout enticing Colorado to take KJ for a few of their bench guys, like Baker (Clemson guy!!), Spilborghs and maybe Torrealba for backup catcher.
Uh…no. Let’s not and say we did.
By Cooch
June 28, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this
pleased at quality of the blog comments and the lack of childish remarks.Old red eyes
Hey dude, I can be as childish as anybody. You can take that to the bank too!!!
By Will
June 28, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this
Tommyp, im sure Hampton can ‘will” himself into some sort of injury that will deter him again. I just want to keep going with the young guys when they are pitching this well. If the braves can possibly turn it around and make the playoffs i want those guys pitching. Glavine hasnt pitched well in the playoffs since the 90’s. Once october comes the other team’s players all just quit being impatient against him and drive everything he throws to the opposite field.
By Braveheart
June 28, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this
This will probably sound like sacrelige (sp?) but I’d put Campillo in the pen as a long man and jettison Bennett. Hampton can go to the minors and further prove he’s ready.
I’d think about putting Campillo back in the pen as well but not until he starts fading. I don’t think he can keep this up forever but, hell, let it ride at this point.
As for Bennett, I wouldn’t get rid of him. He hasn’t been that good lately but I think Bennett is a good pitcher. He’s a quality long man/spot starter to me. If you take out that one really bad appearance in Chicago, he has an ERA in the low 3s. He seemed to lose alot of his effectiveness because he pitched so much early in the first two months. He’ll bounce back with a bit of rest I think. I would never trust him in a close and late situation but as a spot starter/long reliever, Bennett is quality to me.
By Braveheart
June 28, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this
Whatever happened to wait until Duaner Sanchez gets back?
By JEB
June 28, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this
After reading Coach’s story at 4:20 am - I think I’ve gotten a good picture of him.
The character played by Mel Gibson in “Conspiracy Theory”. I bet he has all of these stories tacked up in his office - and has it wired to blow, just in case “The Bobby Cox & Braves front office crew” decide to come in and perform a raid on him. Trying to quiet all of these conspiracies.
Man, this guy is starting to scare me!
By bevsouth
June 28, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this
DOB: Your tolerance for people like Coach is over the top, too bad he never learned to disagree without being disagreeable.
By TommyP
June 28, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this
Will: I hear what you’re saying, I really do.
But if Glavine is healthy, he HAS to be in the rotation.
You don’t put your top FA signing on the shelf while he’s healthy, especially when he’s done all that he’s done for the franchise over the years.
I’m not saying I like Glavine more than the others. I’m just speaking realistically here. If healthy, he goes into the rotation.
By McFann©
June 28, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this
How does Tim Hudson feel about Corky Miller?
I only ask this because McCann has stated every game dating back to June 20, and during that span, he has hit .259 (7-27), with 0 2B, 1 homer, 2 RBI, 6 SO, 1 BB, 1 SB, a .370 SLG, and an OBP of around .320.
Besides, today’s game is a DGANG. He’s started each of the past two DGANG, and his stats for those two games are as follows:
.250 (2-8), with 1 homer, 1 RBI, 4 SO, no walks, and no doubles.
But seeing as how Timmy’s our co-ace, Bobby will prob’ly stick with BMac.
By jim
June 28, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this
Toronto is one of the most livable cities in North America. Clean, low crime rate, less disparity of income between its residents than in a US city, great food, diverse public transport options, good entertainment, nice parks and cultural activities. I haven’t been to Toronto in 25 years, but back then it was an easy city to drive around in, and had a lot of good different ethnic restaurants that were relatively inexpensive. Toronto is on the North side of Lake Ontario, meaning it does not get the lake effect snow like cities in upstate New York and it does not get as cold as Montreal.
DOB, there was a Mandarin Chinese restuarant on Spadina Street called (I believe) Yung Loc (sp?). If it is still there you must try the fish braised in bean curd sauce.
By jim
June 28, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this
If Hampton comes back after the All-Star break, I would go with a 6-man rotation. As was pointed out earlier, JJJ got a second wind after missing a start in Chicago, and the young pitchers need to limit their innings pitched. Hampton could be used like a “relief man” on a 5-crew assembly line — substitute for each starter in turn to keep everybody on a 5-game rotation with a regular break once every 3-5 starts. (The rotation may only apply to the 3 young pitchers and Hampton as they would be the ones needing to regulate their innings more closely.) I assume that Glavine’s return is more problematic right now than Hampton’s, and, at any rate, would be later than Hampton’s.
By TexasBrave
June 28, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this
TommyP welcome back dude!! I too was advocating the skipped starters idea at the beginning of the year knowing the old timers needed rest, the young gun in his first full season and the injured (Hampton) having not pitched in awhile would need some extra rest during the season. Unfortunately we haven’t had that idea come to fruition because of the injuries to Smoltz, Glavine and Hampton.
Now though you might have a chance to do it again if either or both Hampton and Glavine come back. Bobby really needs to look into this idea.
Even though Morton has been doing well he is going to go through some tough times in the Bigs before he can fully realize his potential. I say send him down when one of the two comes back so he can leave on a positive note and take some things back to the minors to work on.
If and when both come back I agree with you that Campillo should be in the pen but I don’t agree that Bennett should be sent to the minors. That distinction should be given to Buddy. Bennett has been worked like a mule and has tired. With the return of Gonzalez, Jeff will get some rest and become more effective. Then we need to kick in the skip a start idea. We all have seen what a fresh JJ can do. I am sure that Jo-Jo and the old guys could benefit from a skipped start as well.
Lastly I do believe that Hampton will be back Will. The man is too much of a competitor not to want to be here. After his lengthy time away from the game his body is making its way back from the lay off as well. How many of us (especially those of us in our mid to late 30’s) have let ourselves go and then tried to come back and do the same things we had done in the past? Pretty difficult!! I believe in Hampton’s determination.
By jim
June 28, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this
Someone posted a snippet from some web-site about Teheran experiencing minor discomfort and being held out for precautionary reasons from his next start. Is this accurate? Is there any more recent update on his condition? Also Rohrbaugh has not pitched in weeks and has not been effective since his return to the MB rotation. What is the story about his condition? Similarly Evarts has not pitched since early May for Rome. Any word on what is wrong with him? I notice that Cordier, Lerew, and Rasmus have made brief rehab appearances for the GCL Braves.
By Run Heap Run
June 28, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this
LOL DOB I wasn’t talking to you at all. You didn’t insult me in any way, shape or form. I was referring to Pete H’s 4:40 reply where he called me a “moran”, not yours. I thought I quoted him in MY reply. Guess not. my bad.
By StingerSplash
June 28, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this
DOB,
gotta concur with you on Toronto. great, great town. prefer Montreal (say, what’s this St. Catherine’s St. all about?), but Toronto ain’t bad at all. First city I went to a The Keg restaurant. Chain, yes, but good. And you can always find a Tim Horton’s. Man alive, if only the rest of America knew about Tim Horton’s. Fixing to go out and maybe I’ll pop in The Rugburns’ “Skyf’nline of Toronto.”
By brent a.
June 28, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this
So, coach’s post was made at 4:20. hmmmm
By TexasBrave
June 28, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
McFann I believe that McCann should start today as well. Not only because Hudson’s pitching but because he will get a day off Monday to rest.
By McFann©
June 28, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this
LINEUP:__ Blanco CF, Gotay 3B, Johnson 2B, Teixeira 1B, Norton DH, McCann C, Francoeur RF, Lillibridge SS, Jones, B LF
There’s a lefty on the mound for the Jays.
Hey, maybe we’ll see Lew on TV today. Didn’t see him yesterday. I’d like to tell him to go after that guy with the air horn if he blows it again today!
By TexasBrave
June 28, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this
DOB - Haven’t seen any updates on Glavine’s injury. How is he progressing? Any time frame for his return?
By Will
June 28, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this
Hope Hudson brings his A game today. Braves for years have seemed to struggle against young pitchers that just came up.
By nolie
June 28, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this
The good news for the Dodgers is that Ferky,Andruw and Nomar are ready to begin rehab, the bad news is that Andruw might actually make it back to the big club. Ok. JK. I always liked Druw.
By McFann©
June 28, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this
TexasBrave—
Yeah. Let’s just hope today goes better than he previous DGANG, or his AVG will fall to sub-.300 for the first time since May 7.
By JEB
June 28, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this
The Braves face an “unknown” in the form of John Parrish today. This could be interesting!
My prediction: This will either be a blow out or a VERY tight low scoring game.
Let’s go Tim - you da’ man!
By brewdawg
June 28, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this
DOB
Hey, maybe this has been asked in here before, if so, i apologize. Any chance the Braves just DL Chipper and let him rest it until after the all-star break? Doesn’t look like the Phils are gonna run away with this division. I’m sure the answer is a resounding NO but i’m curious.
By Tomas
June 28, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this
Pitching has been awesome for the Braves. My only concern is that the bulpen has been used a LOT. The sp are doing a great job, but at the start of the season with all the injuries of Smoltz and Glavine, and even Hampton hurt the bulpen a lot(meaning they were used a lot). ANd even Hudson were he had those starts were he lost his velocity. Hopefully from the second half the injured Braves can come back with some fresh arms.
By David O'Brien
June 28, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this
Just up from clubhouse and field. The trio of wounded are still out of lineup, all making progress but none ready to start a game yet.
Chipper took BP and did a lot of throwing and messing around, turning two as a second baseman (behind the screen, just having fun and catching and slinging throws to 1B).
Infante did some light running, so his hammy’s progressing.
Escobar still so-so with the shoulder. He jammed it, jammed the cuff, when he reached for the base on that play. I don’t think they’ll DL him, but just don’t know for sure….
Chipper, who has been signing autographs (hats, jerseys, posters, you name it) for fans lined up near Braves dugout for the past 30 minutes (I’m looking down there and he’s still got a couple dozen folks in line), told me he probably won’t start a game until Tuesday.
Brewdawg, I answered that question late last night, but to reiterate: They could only DL Chipper retro to the day after his last pinch-hit appearance (which was Wednesday), so at this point it doesn’t make a lot of sense, long as he’s progressing and can play in a few days, to DL him now, since he would then miss all the way through the All-Star break, and basically be out of game action other than pinch-hitting for nearly four consecutive weeks.
OK, as a typed that Chipper finished signing finally, got an ovation from a couple hundred fans near dugout.
By Steve McP
June 28, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this
What is DGANG?
By David O'Brien
June 28, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this
Run Heap Run, now I see what you were referring to, not my response but someone else’s. Sorry about that….
TexasBrave: Tons of stuff written here last week about Glavine, especially Carroll’s story that broke the news that he’ll have to consider surgery if the flexor tendon (being pulled from the bone, ouch) doesn’t respond by around the All-Star break.
He’s basically just in rest-and-rehab mode right now, will be for two or three more weeks.
By Robin
June 28, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this
DOB: Is Katy T. married? I think I’m in lub!
By David O'Brien
June 28, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this
Lineup today: 1. Blanco (CF), 2. Gotay (3B), 3. KJ, 4. Tex, 5. Norton (DH), 6. McCann, 7. Francoeur, 8. Lil’ Bridge, 9. B Jones.
By TexasBrave
June 28, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this
DOB - My bad! I have been on a secluded vaction and have not caught up on all the reading. Thanks for the clue.
Sounds like Glavine may be out at least another month or done for his career.
By jim
June 28, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this
I agree with an earlier poster that McDowell should get some credit for the performance of the Braves’ pitching this year. Credit should also go to Hanson, DelCanton, and Bothello who were instrumental in the development of the young hurlers. Just curious — How much input does McDowell have in determining how the bullpen is used on a daily basis?
As far as the hitters are concerned, we hear announcers often say that the Braves are able to plug people from their system almost seamlessly into their lineup because the “Braves Way” is stressed throught the organization. (The fact that Bobby Cox sits on top of an organizational structure should not be discounted by his detractors.) TP is just the last in a line of hitting coaches that these players have in their development. If we look at the players that the Braves have produced recently, we see a lack of discipline in JF, however, McCann, KJ, Blanco are all very disciplined hitters. Yunel and Prado have at least average plate discipline. The sample is too small to get an accurate read on Brandon Jones, Bryan Pena, and Lil’bridge, but BJ has shown reasonable patience at the plate in the times we have seen him this year. We seem to be evaluating the effectiveness of the batting instruction on the performance of one hitter. The batting coach is an easy target when a team is not hitting and seems to have less job security than the manager since he can be jettisoned at less expense than the cost of eating the manager’s remaining contract, but how many examples of a batting coach making a difference in a team’s hitting stats can one cite? Don Baylor’s influence is credited with making Chipper hit with more power right-handed, but Chipper is a HOF talent that he was coaching. Baylor was not able to change Andruw’s approach at the plate any more than TP (was) is able to change Andruw’s or Jeff’s. Charlie Lau and Walt Hriniak taught a particular style of hitting that some hitters (notably George Brett— again a HOF talent) adopted with success, but their team batting stats were not noticeably better than any others. How many batting coaches are able to limit a slump, like the one recently experience by Chase Utley, and how do we know if and when they do?
The one area this organization does not seem to stress enough is bunting. Perhaps it is the prevalence of the DH in the minor leagues that limits the ABs of the pitchers, but by the time a pitcher makes it to the major leagues, he should be able to get down a sacrifice bunt, and he should be employing a proper bunting technique in doing it. Position players should also be able to bunt when they reach the majors.
By Doc Holliday
June 28, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this
For all those saying they have had enough of Blanco already and that he is no good……. there are only 3 5 players on the team with at least 100 ABs with a higher OBP. Chipper, McCann, TEX and Yunel. We all know those are, by far the best hitters on the team.
Players with 100 ABs that are below his OBP (.357): JF, KJ, Infante, Kotsay, Norton, Diaz.
By GentlemanJack
June 28, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this
Any chance they skip MORTON on Tuesday so HUDDY can pitch on Thurs vs. the Phils? I don’t want to make too much of a series in late June, but hard not to. I want Huddy in there vs. Myers on Thursday.
By Mike
June 28, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this
Hey Coach, I feel dumber after reading your posts…thx a lot.
By Bobby's Cox
June 28, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this
Quack Quack
Thanks for the response. I agree with your points as well.
I also think that Bay will outproduce Nady over time. However, with the game on the line in a crucial AB, i’d rather have Nady at the plate to provide something this team lacks. That’s my only argument in favoring Nady over Bay. But again, both would be serious upgrades.
Also, it’s nice that you saw my point regarding chippper as well. Chipper this year posesses a skill that he never had (like you pointed out), and many players don’t have in that he can look at a defense and hit the ball where they ain’t. So, although I agree with your point that players regress towards means, i also believe players can learn to play at a level beyond their past averages. If frenchy learns a strike zone, shortens his swing, and hits the ball where it’s pitched, he will too. Maybe Nady’s learned how to hit similar to chipper when he’s at bat with RISP. IDK.
But in response to chipper, I think he’ll finish around .370. If Chipper didn’t want to increase his power numbers, which I thought he still produced a lot of power beforehand, then I think he could definately have a shot at .400. If Tex has turned the corner this season and hits like he did last summer and we did get someone like Nady or Bay, then i’d like to see Chipper continue to just get on base and make a run at .400. He’ll score a ton of runs.
By Greg in TN
June 28, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this
Afternoon denizens…
Hudson is on the mound at the metric palace as the Braves begin game two in the land of the puck. Toronto is a neat city indeed, and this denizen agrees with the kudos showered on T-Dot.
“…you have to go a long way to find someone that would say anything bad about Bobby Cox.” - Cito Gaston on SportSouth a few minutes ago.
Cito obviously has never been a Braves/MIB blog reader.
And with a Blanco grounder to Parrish, we are underway.
By Steve C.
June 28, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this
Anybody else notice the Braves no longer have the lowest road-win percentage in baseball (12-27)??? That now belongs to the Rockies (12-29). Woo-hoo! :))
By McFann©
June 28, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this
Steve McP—
DGANG is Day Game After a Night Game, or Day Games After Night Games.
By Greg in TN
June 28, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this
1-2-3 is the story of the first inning. Huddy’s got great movement and location on the heater so far.
By Will
June 28, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
Come on Huddy! this already looks like the usual “braves cant hit a rookie to save their lives” type of game.
By cabravesfan
June 28, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this
Directv has decided that California is in the Atlanta region and therefore black out the game today- updates would be greatly appreciated!
By nolie
June 28, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this
The Braves face an “unknown” in the form of John Parrish today. This could be interestingJEB
6 up 6 down for Parrish so far. Have to see if the Braves can adjust. Guy has been lights out in the minors since surgery.
By Will
June 28, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this
Greg in TN, Hell i bet Cito Gaston loves Bobby Cox he got to win the 92 world Series without anybody managing against him.
By A-ville Ranger
June 28, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this
Looking at the roster like a manager. I see one spot we don’t have an option for once a couple of guys get healthy.We don’t have a lefty pitcher who can spot start and do long relief.Looking at the Braves minor league options Chuck James (on paper at least) looks like by far the best option.As far as Hampton…please don’t get me started.
By KC
June 28, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this
It’s a little hard to watch the Braves make EVERY left-handed pitcher look like Randy Johnson in his prime.
Very frustrating.
By BA
June 28, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this
First nine Braves retired…time to trade Tex and look to the future, this year’s over.
By Robin
June 28, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this
Get your head in the game Lilli!
By McFann©
June 28, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this
Did you guys hear about the big race? Corky vs McCann. Corky is 1-0, and there’s more to come. (It’s like a new Friday thing.)
It all started when Corky hit the week grounder the other day, and McCann said, “I’da beaten that out.” And then it was on…
They’re going to interview the two of them during “Braves Live”, I think, so stand by!
By Salty
June 28, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
Hey Coach, I feel dumber after reading your posts…thx a lot. Mike…only if you believe what’s posted! LOL! Actually, potentially good stuff gets lost by the style of delivery. As it is, Caveman’s ‘Wiz of Oz’ description is appropos. Or…remember ‘George Bush’ in Doonesbury…just a voice! LOL!
By Pete H.
June 28, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this
Oh, goody, a lefty we never saw before. The Braves do so well in these situations.
And seriously, if you’re going to insult an entire city because you didn’t like it during one stinking visit in freaking January, you better develop thicker skin, guy.
By David O'Brien
June 28, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
surprising NEW BLOGGAGE has appeared….
By KC
June 28, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this
Gotay’s can’t lay down a bunt.
Brian McCann doesn’t block the ball in the dirt.
DAMNIT!!!!!
Play some fundamental baseball!!!!!!
You’ve GOT to do the little things right to win with all the bats we’re missing right now. Very frustrating.
By Choppinmama
June 28, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this
cabravesfan: I feel your directtv pain also. NO FL seems to be another blackout area as far as MLB is concerned. Aaarrghhh!
By TennesseePaul
June 28, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this
Ha! Cox really screwed up when he opted to draft Chipper over Van Poppel. Oh, man did he screw up. The Braves could have been a dynasty through the 1990’s had they drafted Van Poppel. Cox is kick himself for missing that one.
This is good stuff. Cracking me up.
I remember a time when Coach was just an normal fan. He’d get excited for the team. He’d make bold claims about the inevitable victory and post season appearance for the Braves. It was a good time.
By woogidy
June 28, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this
Alex Rios = Young Right fielder to be excited about.
By keylargo
June 28, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this
Choppinmama & Cabravesfan
I guess it is the Saturday Fox game that has it all bogged down. (Blackout in the Florida Keys too).
Mets vs Yankees is on Fox - I guess that Fox thinks the entire Nation should stop what we are doing to watch.
By Bobbymahlon
June 29, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this
When Glavine is ready to come back let him work out of the pen and do not demote any of the young guns who are doing much better than he was when he was starting. Glavine is washed up and that is why the Mets didn’t want him. Somebody is got to get after McCann and get him to block low pitches and not merely stab at them one handed. He is a poor catcher and can not throw out runners either but is a great hitter, I only wish he could play some other position like first base when Tex leaves. Another change I would like to see is move Kelley back to left field as he is very bad at second. I can recall at least four errors where they gave hits instead of errors that he made including the one he dropped and gave up on yesterday. He can go to his left but anything hit to his right is a tossup on whether he will make the play.
By MiamiBeachBravesFan
June 30, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
I think replies are appropriate here.
With apologies to DOB, et al, I did not know, nor expect Hampton’s GCL performance to be buried in a Mississippi Braves’ no-hitter story - commendable, but not relevant Braves news in the here-and-now. Yes, Chop Chop, I expected the Hampton story to AT LEAST get equal treatment to a minor leaguer’s no-no. Since I work for a living, I do not have the time to geek out and sink my teeth into every single AJC/Braves story; I look for relevant headlines of interest, and the Braves sorting out their MAJOR league rotation THIS SEASON is way more important than a AA no-hitter. Certainly, it should not have been buried deep in some blog or lesser story.
As for your response, Crazy Stats Katz, I know that your reply would have NEVER happened in person, you worthless, gutless wuss-punk.
Ah, feel better already. A constructive lunch break indeed. Again, DOB, my apologies to you, CR, and the AJC.
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August 13, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this
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