Braves

By Herschel Talker

June 30, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

Numero Uno!

DOB is a blind homer!

By BBFCFM

June 30, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

!tsrif

By Milton Jeff

June 30, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

DOB, I’m actually glad I didnt watch yesterday’s game. All those strikeouts (13) & 15 runners LOB..horrible and disgusting to even read about. Its a shame our pitching has gone to waste and now w/ Chipper on the DL…we need a miracle from somebody on the team. Any more trade rumors??

By dgd

June 30, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

Are there any circumstances under which the Braves would send Jeff Francouer to the minors to work out his game? I guess it’s too much to expect right now given all of the outfield injuries/lack of production. Too bad they don’t have someone tearing it up on the farm. Read in the Washington Post this weekend that most people think the Angels will stand pat and not trade for big bat like Tex after all. If they’re not in the mix, who might be a buyer for Tex. (Oh, right, the Braves are only a right handed bat away from first place. I keep forgetting………..)

By Renegator

June 30, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this

DOB

Once all the Braves infielders get healthy - do you see Gotay as the odd man out? Won’t Prado replace Gotay evetually (once Esco is back and Lilli is gone)?

By etownbrave

June 30, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this

PeachtreeTV in TORONTO?! Can’t even get it living in Georgia on the SC state line. At any rate, thank goodness for radio and the ever calming voices of Skip and Pete. PTV is my nightmare as big series this week and no access for most of the country! GO BRAVES!

By will

June 30, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

Ey Dave, this is a little unrelated but Im really curious as to what the Braves are going to do with all of the money there going to have next year with Smoltz, Glavine, Teixeira, Hampton, and potentially Infante and Ohman out of the picture or back at much lower prices ie Smoltz. Looking at free agents I see Ben Sheets, John Garland, and Rafael Furcal as intriguing options, what do you think?

P.S. Do we really have to pay Mike Hampton’s 6 million dollar buy out?

By Erin

June 30, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this

I thought it was odd, yet great, that I was getting the Toronto games on CBC this weekend (in Seattle, the other end of the country). But PeachtreeTV in Toronto? I didn’t even get SportsSouth in Virginia!

By Tomahawkin

June 30, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

Many of the Phillies fans are saying that we will take 2 of three from them, Obviously they have not seen our Pathetic AAAA team that we have fielded over the last month or so…

Only way we win one or 2 games is maybe we get quality starts from all three (Morton, Double J, and Campillo)

But fact of the matter is that Our AAAA offense needs to Reconize that we can’t out-slug the Big Boys of the Philles lineup…The only way we can compete is we employ good situational hitting (Which we have not done all season) and Play A-B-C Baseball, instead of relying on the 3-Run Homer which hasn’t served us well over the last 3 years…

By Bobby's Cox

June 30, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

DOB

It took me quite a while to get updated on the blog, and I saw numerous people mention Kotsay, but I got the impression from reading the blog this morning that no one had a clue. I think more people than not focus more on the blog than your game stories. Sorry. Maybe you can do more to get more hits on those stories.

Go ahead and CTRL+F (find on page) Kotsay’s name and read the language of the blog regarding Kotsay, and tell me that you get the impression that people KNEW he was going to play on Tuesday even as late as 8,9,10 pm last night.

I posted it because people sounded unsure in their posts, but what I read sounded like it was for sure. If it was reinforcing what you said, then why the anger and comparison to Coach? Thanks DOB. Again, when i posted that it wasn’t mentioned HERE, i was talking more about the bloggers, not you DOB.

BTW, I usually do read your game stories, but I didn’t yesterday. Sorry about that DOB. I didn’t mean to throw you under the bus. When I’m away from the computer, i stay updated on the team with my Blackberry Braves Link, which links me to the Braves website.

Given the relationship you and Bowman have, particulary jokes about his weight issues, etc… it looks like large guy Bowman had reported quicker. Bowman reported it in his 1:59 ET article, and when he has his article titled “Kotsay to Return, Moving Blanco to Left” I’m going to read it. I assumed based on the language on the blog, midgame and post game, that no one knew.

Please don’t include me in your Coach rants. BTW, i like you more than Bowman and your writing skills blow his out of the water. Keep up the good work DOB. You do a heck of a job covering this team, much better than and with more info than Bowman.

Thanks for the Prado update (playing RF in Mississippi yesterday), and the new blog.

By McFann©

June 30, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

BravesFanInRockies—

I was hoping McCann could DH maybe one game as well (I don’t like the DH, but it cann come in handy once in a while).

Those numbers for June are somewhat concerning. Last year he played 23 games in June (22 starts), and he hit .238 with a dangerously low .270 OBP, but he then turned it around to hit .284 with a .329 OBP in July.

This June, he’s played in three more games than last June (26), while making one more start (23).

BUT, at the end of June 2007, he had only started 64 of the Braves’ 81 games, while this year, it’s 72 starts out of 83 games. That’s a lot of time behind the plate.

Just to toss it out there, he hit .365 with a .460 OBP in June 2006. But his power numbers were way low—and he was fresh off the DL. So he was well rested, ya might say. (He had only started 33 games prior to June that year.)

(BTW—Did any of you know that before he went on the DL in late May, 2006, he had caught about 31% of attempted base-stealers in his career?? Since then, he’s caught approximately 19%! He needs to find that old form ASAP!)

By BravesFanInRockies

June 30, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

Renegator,

Not to speak for DOB but the Rockies have to pay Hampton’s buyout. (From Cot’s Baseball Contracts, a great site.)

By Tomahawkin

June 30, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

Will That might be the question of the day…? Good Point Dawg…

I only want to see Hampton dumped because he has robbed the team over the last 2 years…let him go Steal WhineBrenners money…

Bring Furcal back, If and only if he takes 9 million on below…but that brings the question of what to do with Escobar if that scenario is raised, and this is why I believe that the braves F.O. will not go after Furcal

Maybe Sheets will Come to the “A” but I see either WhineBrenner or Omar Minaya Going hard after him…

Any More scenarios?

By Jeff321

June 30, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this

Canada has received WTBS for years and since WTBS turned into PeachTree, it makes perfectly good sense they now get the same feed with a different channel name.

By BravesFanInRockies

June 30, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this

(Actually I was responding to Will.)

By Chris

June 30, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

Really the Braves are going to need to sign Tex next year. As pointed out by Will the Braves will be saving a lot of money on Smoltz, Glavine and Hampton. So they will have the money needed to sign him. They need his bat in the lineup next year. For one they gave up way too much to get him to just let him go, and they need someone in the lineup when Chipper is out hurt to anchor it which is what he can provide. The team would have no shot at all of playoffs next year without him.

By brent a.

June 30, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

I believe there was a blogger earlier this year from the British Columbia who mentioned that he/she got PTV up there as well.

Must be a Canadian thing. I find this intriguing, not just because of the obvious, but also because of how limited US sports coverage is in Canada. You get TSN, and some ESPN channel, that is not really ESPN (maybe that is TSN, but I don’t think so; but anyway), but it doesn’t show you the MLB games.

So, I bet getting the Braves really is a treat, especially for people in Canada who are not already pro-Blue Jay.

So, anyway, that’s all very interesting to me, really. MLB has created a scenario wherein they want to limit a team’s coverage to strictly regional coverage; yet, if you live in Canada, you can get 40 Braves games a year.

What a great continent!

By monty

June 30, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

Key thoughs for the series: don’t let Utley and Howard beat you with the game on the line, because they will.Forget their recent stats.

By ?

June 30, 2008 4:56 PM | Link to this

Holy Cory Snyder! What in the name of Sam Horn, Bob Hamelin and Kevin Maas is wrong with Francoeur?

By Joe

June 30, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

the Braves will not go anywhere until they trade for a descent bat. DOB,you heard of any trade possibilities????????? They need to do something fast. Let’s see if Wren has the guts to make a blockbuster deal.

By Renegator

June 30, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

BravesFanInRockies

No big deal. It happens all the time.

By Dru

June 30, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

Sorry to hear about the Peachtree TV problems. Here in Mobile, I don’t think we’ve missed a single game. The airings rotate between 3-4 channels (CSS, FoxSports, Peachtree, and sometimes even our local public channel), so you may have to search, but the Braves are always on.

One thing to add to the never-ending Francouer discussions. I think one of the reasons Frenchy gets more opportunities than some think he may deserve is because of the marketing. I don’t mean it in a conspiratory way, just that the Braves have spent alot of money marketing Jeff as the ‘future,’ and so I think that may weigh in on the playing time he gets. Not to mention he’s 24 and has had back-to-back 100 rbi seasons, with a gold glove. The guy’s struggling mightily this season and I hate to see it, but it’s hard to argue for sending him down with that resume. With that said, the team could REALLY use him hitting like his first two and a half years…..hopefully he’ll get it figured out soon.

As for those calling to trade him, you’ve got to be kidding me. I know he’s struggling, but there’s no way you trade a 24 year old with his talent. You may think I’m crazy given his year so far, but he’s easily comparable to Jay Bruce. If Jay Bruce has 100 rbi’s the next two seasons, then has a set-back year, do you think the Reds would honestly just trade him away?

By Mike from the coast

June 30, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

If you have Direct tv in GA you can get the Braves on channel 617, maybe other places as well.

By brent a.

June 30, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

Jeff321,

While your post is true, what you might be missing is the fact that it comes as a surprise to most who care that Canadians previously received WTBS, as opposed to the national TBS.

That, to me, is surprising. Is it not to you?

According to Wikipedia:

“Due to a technicality, cable and satellite companies in Canada are only permitted to carry the over-the-air Atlanta station, and therefore most now carry WPCH (“Peachtree TV”) instead of the nationwide TBS channel that other American viewers receive.[1][2] This dated back to prior to the change, when TBS programming was offered to Canadian viewers through WTBS, not the national cable channel. Many cable companies were apparently unaware of the changeover until after it occurred.[3] As a result, should Canadian cable companies wish to air “cable” TBS, it will be several months before the necessary approvals are received.”

Perhaps you majored in International cable programming technicalities; but, I for one (and I would assume many others on this blog) did not, and therefore found it surprising to learn that while the majority of the US was receiving TBS, Canada was watching WTBS, which, as most of us do realize, was basically the exact same thing, only different.

Even the Wiki comment above reveals that there was some surprise that it was WTBS being received in Canada, and not the national TBS.

link to Wiki on TBS)

By La Jolla Dawg

June 30, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

I get Peachtree TV here in La Jolla too. I have Direct TV and the MLB package, but the Peachtree TV station was available to me before I signed up for the MLB package. Not every game that is televised on that station is actually available, but I have watched several.

Love Wilco!

By Chop Chop

June 30, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

Imagine if Robert were to get a hold of this Van Morrison song…

Behind the Ritual

Hear me whine in the alley, hear me whine in the alley/Making time, shoutin’ my whine/Out of my mind due to the days gone by

Making fun of Bobby, spoutin’ that whine/In the days gone by, talking all out of my mind/Shoutin’ that whine, talking all out of my mind

Spin and turning in the alley, spin and turning in the alley/Like a Whirling Dervish in the alley, spoutin’ that whine/Poutin’ whine, making time in the days gone by

Donk-hatin’ child in the alley/Cryin’ that whine, making time, talking all out of my mind/Cryin’ whines in the days gone by, behind the ritual

Behind the ritual, behind the ritual/In the days gone by, shoutin’ that whine/Making time, spoutin’ that whine way back in time

Spittin’ venom and whining in the alley

Spin and turning, spittin’ out whines, talking all out of my mind/Talking that jive, mouthin’ that whine in the days gone by

Whisperin’ whines in the alley, whisperin’ that whine/Making time, talking all out of my mind/Whisperin’ that whine making time in the alley

Behind the ritual, behind the ritual/I find the spiritual, I find the spiritual/Behind the ritual from those days gone by

Yellin’ whine in the alley, yellin’ whine in the alley/Making time, talking all out of my mind/Yellin’ that whine ‘bout the days gone by, days gone by

Spin and turn talking that jive/Spin and turn talking that jive all out of my mind/Drinking that sweet whine/Making time, making time in the days gone by

Behind the ritual, behind the ritual/Behind the ritual, behind the ritual/Drinking that whine making time in the days gone by

Donk, Donk, Donk, Donk, Donk, Donk/Donk, Donk, Donk, Donk, Donk, Donk/Donk, Donk, Donk, Donk, Donk, Donk

Donk, Donk, Donk, Donk, Donk, Donk/Donk, Donk, Donk, Donk, Donk, Donk/Behind the ritual, making time for those days gone by

(There’s more to the song, but I’ve typed enough.)

By Brian

June 30, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

Courtesy of Wikipedia….

Canada WPCH-TV is carried across basic cable outlets in Canada. This dates back to when it was carried under the WTBS calls and TBS branding, as the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission allows any local American station to be carried on Canadian cable services. TBS cable wasn’t carried, as it had to go through the processes necessary to be approved for Canadian carriage, which for American cable networks is a low percentage of acceptance. Due to this technicality, Canadian cable services now carry Peachtree TV instead of the nationwide TBS channel that other American cable viewers receive.[3] Many cable companies were apparently unaware of the changeover until after it occurred. As a result, should Canadian cable companies wish to air “cable” TBS, it will be several months before the necessary approvals are received, and even then the channel may not be approved at all (similar channels general interest entertainment stations USA Network and TNT have not been approved for cable coverage)

By ernesto

June 30, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this

Saw that former Blog-crush Rocco Baldelli is still on the DL (fatigue disorder? From what? The 35 games he’s played in?)

That turned out to be a good non-signing, although I think he makes around 3 mil so he could have helped us reach the all-time “Most money on the shelf” record.

We’ve got that wrapped up right?

By will

June 30, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this

Hampton actually has robbed us of the last 4 years if you think about it sense he likely wont have much of an influence this year and he only had a few starts in 05, as for other scenarios I thought in reference to Furcal perhaps we could move Esco to 3rd, chipper to 1st, and let Furcal play SS. Esco has played 3rd in the past and there’s been talk of moving chipper to 1st sense his injuries started. If we do that edgar renteria and orlando cabrera are other interesting SS options. The 1st base options next year via free agency are non existent so that is why it makes so much sense to be me to move chipper to 1st. Among big left field bats Pat Burrell raises and interesting option but there will be a lot of competition for him and his cold streaks would be on par with Andruw Jones’. As I mentioned before Sheets and Furcal are interesting options because of their recent injury history and will most likely have to take less money for that very reason. Furcal used to play here and Sheets grew up in Louisiana so it might be a safe bet to say he grew up a braves fan. Vlad Guerrero would be a great left field bat if healthy but that is a gigantic IF. There are very few perfect free agent signings next year other then Mark Teixeira who has no foreseeable problems other then the ungodly paycheck he’ll be asking for. Dereck Lowe (too old), Oliver Perez (attitude problem), CC Sabathia (too fat), and Adam Dunn (likely too costly). The braves have not been very active in the free agent pool sense our payroll started to decline but it is likely we will this year considering our excess funds and it is always fun anyway to speculate on the future regardless of the likelihood of your scenarios.

By supa

June 30, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

We need to rock the Phillies while they’re struggling. Can’t keep breaking even at home and losing series on the road. No matter what, that math won’t work.

By Steve from OH

June 30, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this

Ernesto, I believe Baldelli has some sort of rare genetic mitochondrial disorder that makes him easily fatigued….when I first read about it it sounded pretty serious.

By Sizzle

June 30, 2008 5:16 PM | Link to this

I live in Statesboro,Ga I don’t get the games but toronto does? I live in Georgia and don’t get peachtree tv. It is awful. I am a huge brave fan and cannot watch some of the games and I am in Georgia. Peachtree tv is a joke for right now it needs to be available for every person in Georgia atleast!

By The Goche

June 30, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

Saw that former Blog-crush Rocco Baldelli is still on the DL (fatigue disorder? From what? The 35 games he’s played in?)

Dude has a mitochondrial disorder that somehow keeps his body from rebuilding the way it’s supposed to. So you could say he’s fatigued from being alive.

All in all, not that funny. Somehow though, this dude is trying to comeback. Pretty impressive.

By TEC

June 30, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this

Try Living in Houston Texas. We get very few Braves Games on TV. We do not get WTBS, or Sports South. Even when the Saturday Afternoon games are televised, we usually get the Left coast teams over any east coast teams. The only bright side is that we did not have to suffer through any Falcons games last year. We do get most all of the Georgia Bull dogs games. Even out here the SEC games are big.

By Joe

June 30, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

The Francoeur conundrum grows daily. He is clearly getting worse in the field and at the plate (if that is possible) by the minute.

I do not see how Bobby can keep running Frenchy out there? He is absolutely killing this team right now.

Yesterday, after leadoff double, he needed only to ground the ball to the right side to have a man at 3rd and 1 out. What does he do? Hacks at the first two pitches, the 2nd of which he grounds right to the SS.

I could feel some sympathy for the kid if he really does have a degenerative eye condition. But that is still no excuse for being a STUBBORN IDIOT, which he has repeatedly proved himself to be.

He really, really, really needs to go to the DL or to AAA. He, like Corky Miller, is simply not a Major League Baseball player right now, and he is killing us.

I don’t know that we should risk destroying his career by sending him to AAA, but he is not a major leaguer right now. Something must be done.

By Jake

June 30, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this

Time to trade Texeira He has underperformed, is not worth $20M per year, and its very unlikely we are headed to post-season. Its time to trade him to someone who needs a big bat (read: Yankees) and get a big arm in return (read: Phil Hughes or Jaba).

Regardless of the specific deal we are going to have a repeat of the JD Drew disaster if we dont trade him before the deadline.

By Ron Roberts

June 30, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

For those wondering, MiLB.com has Hampton as their feature matchup as the Rome Braves host the Columbus Catfish.

Ha. Funny thing is, with Campillo, JJJ, Morton and Reyes pitching so well, there’s no real need for him to return - as a starter, at least.

Hell, he’d be a good bat off the bench, though, eh? :) Better than the likes of Ruben “Mets realized he sucked well before we did” Gotay.

By The Goche

June 30, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this

I could feel some sympathy for the kid if he really does have a degenerative eye condition. But that is still no excuse for being a STUBBORN IDIOT, which he has repeatedly proved himself to be.

What a jerk he is for playing badly…

Too bad we can’t shoot him.

By Ron Roberts

June 30, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this

Sizzle my problem’s just as bad. I live in Myrtle Beach, SOUTH Carolina and the powers-that-be in corporate-suit-world haven’t been able to see fit to have my TIME WARNER cable offer me SportSOUTH. That’s right; I live in SOUTH Carolina and don’t get SportSOUTH.

I’m missing more Braves games than the non-PeachtreeTV folks. Now, if I were somehow able to get HTC cable here, instead, I could have SportSOUTH.

By BA

June 30, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this

Anybody know if you can hear the Rome Braves game tonight via internet? And if so, where?

By Jeff321

June 30, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this

*While your post is true, what you might be missing is the fact that it comes as a surprise to most who care that Canadians previously received WTBS, as opposed to the national TBS.

That, to me, is surprising. Is it not to you?*

Well, it was surprising when I first read about it a decade ago. My guess is they’ve been receiving the WTBS feed for at least 15 years.

By rammerjammer

June 30, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this

Actually, what DO we do with Hampton if he comes back? Our rotation is terrific as is. I guess Campillo could move to set-up and Hampton move into the rotation…

By The Goche

June 30, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this

Time to trade Texeira He has underperformed

He of the NL leading 10 home runs in the last month. To be fair, he is only tied…talk about underperforming.

And he’s SECOND in RBI with 27. Loser.

By ernesto

June 30, 2008 5:45 PM | Link to this

my apologies to rocco.

By Ron Roberts

June 30, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this

1. You can listen to the R-Braves game after signing up for the free service at www.milb.com.

2. If Hampton comes back healthy, to hell with moving Campillo. Use Hampton outta the ‘pen, I say.

By Novice Ned

June 30, 2008 5:54 PM | Link to this

Seems that we used to get daily updates on how bad Andruw had gotten. Why not do the same with Frenchy? Especially when Frenchy is also having some defensive struggles to add to his confusion at the plate.

It will be interesting to see how ou HOF Manager handles this. Status quo ain’t working.

By BlackberryCobbler

June 30, 2008 6:02 PM | Link to this

Frank Wren, on TV with Joe and John yesterday I believe, said the Braves aren’t going to do anything until after the All-Star break…… gonna wait and see what position the club is in at that time then probably make a move or two.

Typical Braves response. Sit back on your @$$ and watch this team fart around for another few weeks.

By BA

June 30, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Ronnie

By The Voice of Reason

June 30, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this

Folks…with appologies to all the kool aid drinkers, the Braves need to get younger. Start with Bobby Cox who has been stealing from them for the past 4 years, and go right through our coaches, pitchers, and utility players. If we don’t have better players in AA or AAA than Acosta, Boyer, Glavine, Kotsay, Frenchy, and all the other hanger oners, then JS should be run out out town on a rail (up his A#$). The future is our farm team, not the washed up drinking buddies of Bobby. What’s the harm of giving them a chance…look what’s happened to our young pitchers.

Peace

By Yoda

June 30, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this

Dude has a mitochondrial disorder that somehow keeps his body from rebuilding the way it’s supposed to.

Baldelli does not have the midi-chlorians needed to be a Jedi Knight. The Force is not strong with Baldelli.

By TexasBrave

June 30, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this

“I think Jeff’s going through a time now where he’s trying to do a lot of things,” I don’t know if you guys have read this or not but the FOX people were interviewing Wren and here is what he had to say about Frenchy.

Wren says. “He’s trying to get on track and he’s just human. And it bothers you. He’s been so successful and so good for so long. You just have to persevere and fight through it.”

Wren’s advice to Francoeur? “Just keep playing. That’s all you can do at this point.”

So if Wren has his way Jeff is in the line up for the foreseeable future.

By Global

June 30, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this

In recent series against the Phillies, the Braves got a struggling Ryan Howard going. Let’s hope that doesn’t happen yet again.

By BUSHWACKER

June 30, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this

Its obvious Francouer has fallen into the espn home run culture, when he said he bulked up to hit more home runs I knew this would happen, you should NEVER try to hit home runs and I can’t believe none of the coaches have told him that.

He worked out to get bigger in the offseason, now he is fatigued and unable to generate bat speed which is why he sucks right now.

The same thing happen to Chipper when he went to the outfiled, fatigued and his numbers sucked.

Look at Chippers numbers since he went back to 3b.

Unfortunately unless someone tells Francouer to stop trying to hit home runs and just hit line drives, we have another Klesko, hr or an out!

By BUSHWACKER

June 30, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this

Its obvious Francouer has fallen into the espn home run culture, when he said he bulked up to hit more home runs I knew this would happen, you should NEVER try to hit home runs and I can’t believe none of the coaches have told him that.

He worked out to get bigger in the offseason, now he is fatigued and unable to generate bat speed which is why he sucks right now.

The same thing happen to Chipper when he went to the outfiled, fatigued and his numbers sucked.

Look at Chippers numbers since he went back to 3b.

Unfortunately unless someone tells Francouer to stop trying to hit home runs and just hit line drives, we have another Klesko, hr or an out!

By Geoffry

June 30, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this

Don’t dismiss the old crush the braves had regarding Baldelli.

Remember the other crush JS had with Craig Wilson? Well JS finally got him didn’t he…

Baldelli is a free agent after this year.

Stay tuned.

By cabravesfan

June 30, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this

The Voice of Reason if you are going to claim the Braves are too old- dude, at least use players that ARE old…Acosta and Boyer are both only 27 (Blaine actually turns 27 on the 11th) and Francoeur is 24…in what world is that old? I understand the point but really…bad examples

By AuburnBrave

June 30, 2008 6:18 PM | Link to this

I ditched my DishNetwork last week in favor of DirecTV, now I get all the Braves’ games, plus a couple channels I didn’t get with a similar package on Dish, plus my local channels via DTV that Dish couldn’t give, plus it’s a little less expensive than Dish, I’m a happy camper.

By Ron Roberts

June 30, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

VoiceofReason do you see the current rotation? They are younger at SP, RP, RF, 2B, SS, and C. And Tex isn’t exaclty “old.”

By Frank

June 30, 2008 6:23 PM | Link to this

I agree with the Voice of Reason.

We need to get younger. Let’s get rid of Frenchy, Boyer, and Acosta. They are way past their primes and should be cleaned out for some of our younger AAA guys. And we should get rid of JS. I would like to have “Voice of Reason” running my franchise.

By BravesFanInRockies

June 30, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this

TexasBrave,

I’ll be more concerned about Wren’s view of Frenchy if he’s still in the lineup every day after Kotsay and Diaz are healthy.

If Frenchy hasn’t snapped out of it by then (if he’s hitting — what? — .220), and Bobby still runs him out there every day, then I won’t say they’re doomed but yeah they may be.

By Doc Holliday

June 30, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this

DAP

I see you get my point. And Braves bullpen is not so bad as phillies SP.

By Yoga Instrustor

June 30, 2008 6:34 PM | Link to this

Anyone know someone that can use Yoga?

I have excellent rates for group pricing! Check out these amazing benefits Yoga provides:

Flexibility: Stretching your tight body in new ways will help it to become more flexible, bringing greater range of motion to muscles and joints. Over time, you can expect to gain flexibility in your hamstrings (Glavine), back (Kotsay), shoulders(Smotlz), hips, and quads (chipper).

Muscle tone: As a by-product of getting stronger, you can expect to see increased muscle tone. Yoga helps shape long, lean muscles (Lillibridge, Blanco, Prado).

Pain Prevention: Increased flexibility and strength can help prevent the causes of some types of back pain. (Kotsay)

Body Awareness: Doing yoga will give you an increased awareness of your own body (Francoeur). You are often called upon to make small, subtle movements to improve your alignment. (Francoeur). Over time, this will increase your level of comfort in your own body. (Francoeur). This can lead to improved posture and greater self-confidence. (Francoeur).

Stress Reduction: Physical activity is good for relieving stress, and this is particularly true of yoga. (1 RUN LOSSES). Because of the concentration required, your daily troubles, both large and small, seem to melt away during the time you are doing yoga. (1 RUN LOSSES). This provides a much-needed break from your stressors, as well as helping put things into perspective (Fundamentals). The emphasis yoga places on being in the moment can also help relieve stress, as you learn not to dwell on past events or anticipate the future. (1 RUN LOSSES)

You will leave a yoga class feeling less stressed than when you started.

Let me know if you know anyone that is interested!

By Doc Holliday

June 30, 2008 6:38 PM | Link to this

Id also like seeing Hampton come out of the pen as someone mentioned earlier……. no way you move campillo to the pen……….not now.

By Eric

June 30, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this

DOB, Can someone do something about our team’s fundamentals? They are absolutely TERRIBLE. Frenchy had a runner on 1st with 0 outs the other day. His job should be to hit the ball to the right side so that the runner can advance. He tries to pull the ball and hits into a DP. If he was slumping but was still playing fundemental ball, I’d feel all right about it but he just looks like garbage up there.

By TexasBrave

June 30, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this

I am sure you guys know this in your gut that Hampton will not be placed in the pen. Upon his return he will be placed in the starting line up and most likely Morton (no matter how well he has been doing) will be sent down.

Agree with you though that no way you sit Campillo in the pen.

By Run Heap Run

June 30, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this

Chipper fans you must get your hands on the July Choptalk, its the first of 4 part series on his career starting with the day he was drafted.

Speaking of Hoss, my sister was at a bowling alley with her kids today and Roswell when the man himself showed up with his boys for some bowling. She said he had them all by himself. His wife must not get out much..not a lot of men would take on 3 kids by theirself!

By mark

June 30, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this

I say each day this team has had injuries however is deep in talent but needs coaching changes…its not fair to fans that Cox keep hangn in there..and TP is having no success teaching hitters he even looks like a old grump on TV…, and well McDowell is loaded with talent but the arms keep going down…Get Francour to work with his old high school coach…

By Run Heap Run

June 30, 2008 7:01 PM | Link to this

No worries about Hampton’s return. I give him 3 innings before he tears his labia and goes back to the DL.

By Chopped Off

June 30, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this

When TBS dropped the Braves and changed format, Canada dropped the American TBS as well.

“WPCH-TV is carried across basic cable outlets in Canada. This dates back to when it was carried under the WTBS calls and TBS branding, as the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission allows any local American station to be carried on Canadian cable services. TBS cable wasn’t carried, as it had to go through the processes necessary to be approved for Canadian carriage, which for American cable networks is a low percentage of acceptance. Due to this technicality, Canadian cable services now carry Peachtree TV instead of the nationwide TBS channel that other American cable viewers receive” - wikipedia

Also when in vacation in Florida we could not get the Braves either.

Can we re vote and name Turner Field to Hank Aaron Park?

By Lew

June 30, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this

Howdy Y’all-Just got back from Toronto. Several notes on the weekend’s series.

1.Lots of Braves’ fans in Toronto-way more than I would have thought. We made our presence known, but had damn little to cheer for-except-

1. Jair Jurrjens is the real deal folks. That is the best pitched ball game I’ve attended in almost 50 years of going to games. He was damn near unhittable.

2. JoJo Reyes is also much more special than many here have thought. The kid is very good.

3. The offense is quite offensive and I just don’t see much improvement in store with Chipper gone. Getting Kotsay back will help, but there just ain’t enough Hosses left to do much. Not too sure it’s a stud pitcher we need, but some much needed offense, instead. Some moves would be a good thing right about now with the trade deadline approaching.

By McFann©

June 30, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this

Run Heap Run—

That’s pretty cool! We saw Glen Hubbard at Lowes in 2004. Went right up to him, and carried on a conversation—he was real nice! (It was funny—I didn’t know who he was when Mom first saw him.)

But that’s pretty cool to see Chipper at a bowling ally with his kids! I like to look for players whenever we go places like the Aquarium and such, but I haven’t had any luck.

But I will tell you all that McCann got married at our Church!!

By buzzdeadwax

June 30, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this

Frenchy needs to go to Richmond for about a month. He needs to decide on ONE approach, stop watching ESPN, and just try to work out of his slump in an environment where winning doesn’t (or shouldn’t) matter. He isn’t going to be able to accomplish this in Atlanta - for some reason he HAS to be the hero, and he can’t just relax and focus. Someone mentioned that it could ruin his career by sending him down, but I’m worried that too much more of this, and he’ll fall into a hitting funk equivalent to what Wohlers or Ankiel went through. He’s simply too talented and the team and the fans have too much invested in him to let that happen.

By McFann©

June 30, 2008 7:23 PM | Link to this

Welcome back, Lew!

They never got the camera over where you were sitting.

Glad you got to see one good game. At least you weren’t at Sunday’s game. That game was pathetic.

And I hate it when they play like that right before and off-day. Then you’re sitting around the next day without a Braves game, and the clearest one in your mind is one without offense!

By kunifa

June 30, 2008 7:23 PM | Link to this

Jeff Francouer - the2008 Andrew Jones version for leaving runners stranded or better yet he is Andrew Jone’s replacement for leaving runner on base!

By WGDinJC

June 30, 2008 7:25 PM | Link to this

For the record, I have family in different parts of Ontario and they regularly receive both Peachtree TV and GPTV… Has been that way for a while (at my cousin’s house, they replaced TBS with Peachtree TV) so not sure what the attraction is for those in Ontario but the bars seem not to mind at all…

By bulldogbubba

June 30, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this

“Hampton Makes It Through The First Inning” Updates to follow! HaHa Go to milb.com for details and log on to rome braves.com to listen.

By Doc Holliday

June 30, 2008 7:27 PM | Link to this

Hey McFann how are you on this off day? Is you boy ready for the phillies? hehe.

By prattvillenolzfan

June 30, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this

RunHeapRun

If she has 3 kids, and her husband is gone out of town for up to 2 weeks at a time 6 months out of the year, then yeah, I agree with you, she doesn’t have a chance to get out much……

Chipper was probably just enjoying a rare day off, and spending it w/ his kids……

By cynic

June 30, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this

I wonder if Jeff’s bulking up and lower stats has something to do with maybe a change in his “prescription” this year compared with the last few years

Could be why there’s a drop in power numbers and could be why he bulked up. That is to offset a change in his physique, Hint Hint

By keylargo

June 30, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this

Eric

Did you see that wildly prophetic quote by Chipper this spring? Lose an Andruw, gain an Andruw?

Peachree TV

I want those of you who are complaining so vigorously about Peachtree TV to realize that this is going to more than likely be the last year you will get to complain about watching the Braves basically free. I brought this up two years ago when I first paid Directv $200 for a season (2007).

I don’t claim to have any inside knowledge, know inside people, Frank Wren doesn’t call me, David O’Brien won’t answer my questions on his blog and in general I’m just guessing.

As a South Florida resident, I get WTBS and they broadcast their games here free until the 2007 season. WTBS quit and Directv, Dish Network, MLB.com and others were there to step in and sell me the right to watch the season for about $200.

My guess is that somewhere, in some office designed to separate MLB fans from their money this has not gone unnoticed. In 2008 I renewed my Directv subscription for $200. I just can’t see anyone, anywhere getting it for free when MLB knows that people will pay. AND THEY WILL

By RedEyedAndBlue

June 30, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this

for all the Frenchy hating that’s being spouted on the blog these days (and I admit he has been bad), i think part of his subpar performance is the result of not having a successful Matt Diaz hitting behind him all year. Sure, most of Frenchy’s problem is probably mental. But Diaz was hitting .345 in late August last year. Now pitchers can throw what they want to Francoeur in key situations. And Frenchy, well, is probably more prone to swing at those pitches ‘cause he doesn’t want to leave the weight on B. Jones/Blanco/Infante/etc. to drive in the runs.

By Reg McDuff

June 30, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this

O Canada!

Our home and native land!

True patriot love in all thy sons command.

With glowing hearts we see thee rise,

The True North strong and free!

From far and wide,

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

God keep our land glorious and free!

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

By Run Heap Run

June 30, 2008 7:51 PM | Link to this

McFann my sister said he was swarmed by everyone as soon as he walked in the door. She said she probably wouldn’t have even noticed him (busy running HER kids) if he hadn’t attracted such a crowd. She said he was very nice about it and seemed to love the attention lol and that he was HUGE. Exact words: “I never knew he was so freakin big” . Needless to say, I’m jealous. Nobody would’ve had to swarm him for me to notice who he was. lol

By kirknga

June 30, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this

I wouldn’t count on having money freed up from Smoltz’s contract next year. I believe(according to Cots) that he has the option next year, not the Braves. I bet he takes the money.

I would go after Sabathia before Sheets, though either would be nice to see in our rotation. Just as with Tex, you’re going to have to overpay for either one.

When Hampton returns he will be in the rotation. He showed in ST he could still pitch, it’s staying healthy that is the issue.

Before the injury streak Hampton was a very good pitcher. The Braves aren’t going to pay him $8-16 million to pitch in the ‘pen.

Just because you’re mad/disappointed in Hampton doesn’t mean you punish the team by not taking advantage of what he was brought here to do. He has a track record in the major leagues, 4 of our starters don’t. So he goes back into the rotation until he pitches himself out of it.

If and when Glavine comes back, he goes into the rotation too.

By Jeff321

June 30, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this

Hampton’s given up 7 hits so far..

By BravesFanInRockies

June 30, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this

Lew,

10-4 on Jair. I saw him pitch in Denver and he was completely in command. (The D helped, particularly Chipper with an over-the-shoulder catch.)

If we don’t overwork the young man too much this season I think there will be many fine years ahead.

By Run Heap Run

June 30, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this

keylargo

I live in West Alabama and Directv includes PTV in my regular plan at no extra cost. It comes on just before a game and it goes off just after the game. My granny lives in Northeast Alabama and she is on Charter cable and they also added PTV to their standard lineup. I don’t know if its on all the time or just for games but she does get the games and she never misses one! Finally, my uncle lives in Montgomery (South Alabama) and he is on comcast cable and he gets PTV on his regular channels and in HD. Again, not sure if thats always on or just for games. None of these systems offered PTV before this year so I believe if a cable company wants to add PTV to its lineup it can be done.

By McFann©

June 30, 2008 8:11 PM | Link to this

Doc—

I hope he’s ready…

Run Heap Run—

Yeah, I’d prob’ly know Chipper, too, even without the crowd!

I didn’t really know he was “freakin’ huge”, either. (Though he said in our program that his “current obsession” was McDonald’s…sorry. Your sister means muscular, off course, right? LOL…sorry…really…)

So did she go up to him, too? Man…

By South Jaw JA

June 30, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

Ahh to live in Toronto, or ( I never thought I’d say this EVER) or LA, lower Alabama. My local cable company deletes my unread e-mails about Peachtree TV…..my cable company? CNS in Thomasville, GA

By cityofdecatur

June 30, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this

Paying Hampton all that money to do nothing DON’t move the kids out of the rotation the experience is invaluable Hampton and Glavine middle relief and setup fewer innings less wear and tear the money is being spent anyhoo so don’t BOBBY PLEASE DON’T MOVE THE KIDS OUT OF THE ROTATION don’t mess with a good thing. do what best for the team. Frenchy a couple of weeks in Richmond or Mississippi as a break is what you need . Mick and Keith said it best “you don’t always get what you want YOU GET WHAT YOU NEED!”

MY 2 cents worth leaves me with 48 cents in my pocket.

By keylargo

June 30, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this

Run Heap Run

I am about 850 miles south of Atlanta, so I might as well be classified in with cabravesfan and WayneinUtah.
We don’t get Peachtree, but MLB Extra Innings.

But you and your relatives are the ones in danger of being given the option of pay for PTV or not get the Braves at all. I can just see the cable companies adding “major sports package” to your bill as premium package.

I know we went through it with them juggling Sports South, WTBS, etc. until they were all (at least the free ones) gone.

I hope I am wrong, and with my track record, there is a good chance I am.

By Original Voice of Reason

June 30, 2008 8:27 PM | Link to this

You see… I quit blogging over here for a while, and some guy jacks my handle and posts crap that makes no sense.

For all of you who may remember me, that wasn’t me. For those who don’t, I guess it doesn’t make much difference…

By Bobbymahlon

June 30, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this

Auburnbrave: Where do you live that you get all the Braves games on Directv. I’m trying to find out if I can get the games that peachtree tv broadcasts. I live in Greenwood S.C. If you’d be so kind e-mail me at bevnbobh@nctv.com

By Reid in EAV

June 30, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this

keylargo, I don’t doubt that something like that is going on. That said, the inadequate coverage of Peachtree runs smack into the onerous and outdated MLB blackout policy in lots of places. That is to say, if I lived in Statesboro, and, frustrated from not being able to get WPCH, I signed up for MLB.tv, I still wouldn’t be able to see Braves games on my computer. Why? Unless I do some clever IP spoofing, I live in their market area, and those games are blacked out.

At least I think all of that is the case. Someone please set me straight if not. MLB blackout policy is badly in need of reform in any case. Here’s a good primer on that wackiness. I’ve never understood why MLB thinks it good business to keep ardent fans from partaking in their products.

By Saltywoody

June 30, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this

Where can a guy get updates on how Hampton’s pitching?

I just really want to watch Gameday post “INJURY DELAY: Hampton (ATL) leaves game with oral laceration from sucking too hard”

By Crazy Stats Katz

June 30, 2008 8:45 PM | Link to this

What’s the over/under on Hampton suffering another t!tty twister tonight?

By Beagle

June 30, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this

Canada has always gotten the “local Atlanta” TBS feed. I’m not really sure why. Its the one that you can get over the air in Atlanta. Even before the switch to Peachtree, the over the air version of TBS was slightly different, showing a local news show on Saturday mornings and I’m sure some other things too. When Turner made the switch, Canada just continued to get that same feed (ie if you turn to 17 using an OTA tv, you see PTV now). I would imagine that they might also get the new TBS (which I don’t remember watching anymore).

By Crazy Stats Katz

June 30, 2008 8:47 PM | Link to this

Hampton’s line tonight: 3 innings, 8 hits, 5 Ks, 4 runs, 3 earned

By dru

June 30, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

kirknga, not sure about smoltz’s contract, but the option i heard of was if he pitched 200+ innings. there may be other options, but i heard/read about that one from several sources when he first went on the DL.

As for chipper being “freakin’ huge, boog and co. were talking about it during one game. said he was one of those surprisingly big guys. i never really think of him as being that big, but he’s listed as 6’4”/210. For some perspective, Tex is listed as 6’3”/220!

By brent a.

June 30, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

kirknga

I am pretty certain that Smoltz had a vesting option based upon some level in performance in 2008 that as it turned out, he did not achieve.

He will be a free agent come season’s end.

By NO MORE BOBBY

June 30, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

The Smoltz story today was great and only proves my point……

SMOLTZ FOR MANAGER 2010!!!!!!!

By A-ville Ranger

June 30, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this

I live outside Asheville NC.I have Charter cable but channel 77 is CSS (Comcast) here.Peachtree TV’s Braves schedule is carried here on that channel.

I don't know if the rest on NC gets them this way.I didn't realize they were carrying them till sometime in may when I happened to surf to 77 during the game.

By JacksonV84

June 30, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this

Jeff then and Now. All in good fun, of course.

Frenchy (2005) In Cooperstown they’re making space and polishing his plaque. The runners all are hesitating between second and third sack. His average climbs most every day And in the stands the children say “Is that Jesus in right field? Why is ‘Francouer’ on his back?”

Well I’ve seen fire and I’ve seen rain, I’ve seen a thing or two. The older men have seen still more—look at them nod, “It’s true, it’s true.” But us ball fans—old men and me— On this point we can all agree: That no one’s seen the kind of things that Jeff Francouer can do.

His arm’s too strong, his bat too quick, he plays too well the game For this to end but in a film, and he but in the Hall of Fame. If you be wise, then hear you me, Keep all of your Octobers free. Perfection is Jeff’s calling card and win his middle name.

Go on and bet the farm on it. Yes, I’ve been wrong before, But this time God’s on our side and he’s only twenty-two, what’s more. Look at the Mets and Phillies cry, Young Jeff’s already made SI And if it’s all downhill from here? That’s what the beer is for.

By kirknga

June 30, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this

BOBBY PLEASE DON’T MOVE THE KIDS OUT OF THE ROTATION

Well ok. The tradition of this blog teaches us that this sentiment will not last. As soon as Morton and Campillo hit a bump…and they will…the same people who praise them now will curse them then. The same for JJ and Jo Jo only they will get a bit more leeway.

No, if healthy, Hampton and Glavine go back into the rotation because they are established major league pitchers and you play the game to win..not to give 4 rookies experience.

If they aren’t healthy ,then fine ,stay with 4 rookies but realize that rookies and young players are going to be inconsistent and don’t whine when they mess up.

With Chipper and Kotsay out of the lineup the Braves are the youngest team in the majors. Calling for them to get younger seems redundant.

By JacksonV84

June 30, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this

Francouer (2008) Tired, tired. The fans have took to wailing For all of Francouer’s flailing. The runners: left stranded. The Braves: empty-handed. And poor Jeffrey looks heavy and grim. Tired, tired.

Sinking, sinking. Only ninety feet to base? But this brings such scant solace. Ninety feet to the shore Seems an awful lot more For a man who’s drowning and can’t swim. Sinking, sinking.

Angry, angry. The man’s not upheld his end Of the bargain made twixt friends: We’ll all holler and shout And he’ll never get out Or we’ll turn on him, as on a whim. Angry, angry.

Empty, empty. He’s making hopefuls liars. What happened to the empire That he was to have built? Has he begun to wilt Under pressure promise placed on him? Empty, empty.

By prattvillenolzfan

June 30, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

RunHeapRun

Don’t mean to p** in your cheerios, but I live in Prattville/Montgomery,(central alabama btw, not south alabama….) and we DO NOT have comcast, we have Charter Cable. We also DO NOT have peachtree tv ..

Don’t know what your uncle is getting..We do get however CSS Tv that does carry the Peachtree Feed of the Braves games, but that is on All CSS channel in the Braves Market….

It’s funny to hear about lack of Braves coverage. I spent the first 40+ years living in North Florida…It is still considered Braves country, but you can’t get any Braves games on the Radio…Some of South Ga’s stations came come in sometimes, and the Fox affiliate carries Tampa’s games….In Tallahassee, the local sports radio station carries the Rays games also….(The program director is from Tampa…he thinks everyone is like him, and supports the Rays over the Braves…

I say that because here in Montgomery we have the Ray’s Double A franchise, the Montgomery Biscuits (what is it about Southern Minor League nicknames..) and some of the local media here is petitioning to have the Rays games being broadcast on the radio/tv here. There thinking is that this area is becoming a Rays town also instead of the Braves…..Most of their response has been wrong…It is still a Braves town…Atlanta is only 2 1/2 hours away, you can easily travel to Atlanta and back to catch a game..

I say all of that to FINALLY get to my point

I think that we are now starting to see the repurcussions of the Braves NOT BEING SEEN ON NATIONAL TV

Lew mentioned the many Braves fans in attendance at the game this week-end, the many Braves fans in attendence at the Texas series as well.

I know I’m ranting about something so trivial (Hey it’s an off-day…at least we aren’t talking about Barry….)But to see the national presence the Braves HAD are unfortunately a thing of the past…

By Run Heap Run

June 30, 2008 9:12 PM | Link to this

McFann I had this whole thing wrote out and I got the cannot display page so anyway..short version.

My sister is very petite and 5’2” so to her he probably looked like he could eat her for dinner if he’s 6’4” 220, thus the “freakin huge” comment.

No, she didn’t approach him but she said she was standing like 5 feet away from him and “a swarm of squealing girls” and other than freaking huge he looked younger than she thought he should look. Her girls are 6 and 2 and more into Hannah Montana and Elmo to be excited about a lowly baseball superstar so even they couldn’t appreciate their good fortune. She did say he was smiling and polite and didn’t seem bothered by the fans, in fact she said he looked like he was eating it up.

Oh and he got a hot dog and some nachos from the snack bar. lol

Glad he had a nice off day with his boys and a few lucky fans.

By kirknga

June 30, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this

dru and brent a

Didn’t see that on Cots. However, even so, unless Smoltz changes his mind and retracts his statement about a comeback, I don’t see the Braves putting him out to pasture.

I would like to see the money freed and the Braves be real players in the market this off season, but I also don’t want to give Smotlz every benefit of the doubt. I think he’s earned. Perhaps the Braves feel the same way?

Anymore Hampton updates?

By Spider29

June 30, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this

I live in Northwest Florida. If it weren’t for MLB Extra Innings on Cox Cable, I would only see the Braves when I come “home” to middle Georgia.

By Mike Hampton

June 30, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this

Pretty weird.

Oops, I just strained both my arms while typing this! Good thing I get paid millions to do nothing, right?

I love being with this team.

By Run Heap Run

June 30, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this

prattville Hmmm so you get PTV but its on CSS? Maybe that’s what he gets. IDK? I may be mixing up his cable system with my granny’s (one has comcast and one has charter, i do know that) but I know he gets ALL the braves games whether they are on Sportsouth, FSN, PTV or whatever else.

My directv has a sports tier with extra out of market channels like all the Fox Sports channels, NESN and YES for, i think, $12 a month, but it blacksout games shown on those channels and only shows the other programming shown on there. If PTV goes to that then it would probably do the same. I would gripe about it for sure but push comes to shove I’d pay the $170 for extra innings to see the braves. HOPEFULLY I won’t have to do that any time soon!

By McFann©

June 30, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this

Run Heap Run—

That’s a shame that her daughters didn’t know what they were missing…Someday she’ll tell them that they were 5 feet from a HOF third baseman and they’ll freak…

I’m sure he was enjoying the moment…just hope he didn’t bowl too hard—with the hurt quad, n’ all.

Good observation on your sister’s part to see what he had to eat, LOL. If I’da been there, that’s one thing I’d look for…don’t know why, I just like to know that kind of stuff. I do know he doesn’t like broccoli…

Chipper is one of the the tallest guy on the team (Francoeur’s the same height…Stockman’s taller—but I know! They sent him down…)

But it sounds like Chipper had a nice off day. Thanks for sharing the story. It’s fun to know how the players spend their days off.

By jcmo71

June 30, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this

Heyward has a Grand Slam tonight. Atleast there is one guy in the organization that can hit with the bases loaded. Come on Frenchie…

By jcmo71

June 30, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this

Put on your thinking caps. Name some guys that jumped from A Ball to the majors and produced.

By Jeff321

June 30, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this

There is a writeup on Hampton here:

http://tinyurl.com/5c3lzy

Hampton throws three innings in Class A Left-hander likely to rejoin Braves around the All-Star break

By Jason Heyward

June 30, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this

Call me up. I’ll take over right field.

By Monk

June 30, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this

prattvillenolzfan,

FYI, PTV is available in Montgomery via Knology cable Channel 71.

By jcmo71

June 30, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

Furcal being the obvious one.

By McFann©

June 30, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this

Run Heap Run—

One more thing:

I always like to copy my longer posts before I send them, just in case something goes wrong. Then I cann just paste it in the box again. The “copy” and “paste” thingies are under “file” at the top of the computer screen…at least they are on Macs. I don’t know what kind of computer you have.

Anyway, that works for me. It saves time and posts if somehow they don’t go through. (Before Overlord reminded me about “copy and paste”, I lost a post that was about four paragraphs long!)

Night, all!! (Mets are losing!)

By keylargo

June 30, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

Mike Hampton

If you get hurt again, the Braves may not exercise your $20M option for next year.

What would you do if you had to settle for the $6M buyout? I’ve often wondered if you might give your agent a bonus for all he has done for you. You might have to go back to work next year!!

As bitter as some Braves might be, things could be worse. Colorado agreed to pay Hampton’s $6M buyout. No one could have imagined he might not be worth $20M except maybe JS.

By kirknga

June 30, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this

Thanks Jeff321

Interesting that he didn’t walk anyone yet didn’t make it past the 3rd. Location seems like an issue.

Well guess there’s nothing more to do now than wait a few weeks and see if the doesn’t come up lame again.

If he is healthy, get ready for the “just like making a trade” quotes from people.

By Train Wreck Bystander

June 30, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

My dad had DirecTV back in the mid 90s and changed to dishNet because they carried all the Braves outlets at that time, while DirecTV didn’t. Imagine his consternation when hearing that he would have to change back to get all the outlets again. He spent the last 10 years learning all the numbers of the channels he watched. He’s not changing providers again.

He sits on the front porch and listens to the first few innings of every Peachtree game on the radio - until nightfall comes and he loses the signal. I feel so sorry for him.

Whoever decided not to put the games on dishNet did the territory fan base a real disservice this year.

By David O'Brien

June 30, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this

Tampa Bay Rays: For real. Believe it. Stunning what they’re doing in same division as Sox and Yankees with payroll that’s, what, one-sixth of those teams?…

Will, Colorado agreed to pay Hampton’s buyout as part of the three-team trade years ago. That’s done.

By Logan23

June 30, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this

Tommy Hanson Line

3IP 5H 1R 1ER 3W 2K 1HR

By David O'Brien

June 30, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this

kirknga, Smoltz is a free agent after the season. His option won’t vest. Had to pitch 200 innings for that to happen.

By Ralph

June 30, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this

The Atlanta Braves fans everywhere, have to face the fact that the team is now a third rate team. I trustily believe, that the organization knows where the problems are. They know that the first step is to get rid of Pendleton. Francoeur’s woes, they won’t go away, he is getting worse, need to be a part time player or minor league player, until he can gets his head screw back on right, send the kid Jones back to the minors, he’s not really, for the big leagues. Get rid of Gotay and Miller, and a couple of others that are a dead weight, to the team. The main move to help the Braves is to replace Bobby Cox, the man was a very good manager, but he keeps making the same mistakes over and over again, hoping that if he repeats the same problems, he’ll get it right one time. We are not the manage, Bobby Cox is, but as a long time fans, and having play the game for many of years, bad decisions are obvious, even to fans. It’s not all Bobby’s false, but it starts with him and ends with him. The Braves most likely won’t gain the magic of years gone by, the standard of play in the pass couple of years is that of a long standing third rate team. The new general manager, isn’t doing a very good job, they wait to long a make decisions. The highest respect is due, to Bobby Cox.

By David O'Brien

June 30, 2008 10:26 PM | Link to this

Time to trade Texeira He has underperformed, is not worth $20M per year, and its very unlikely we are headed to post-season. Its time to trade him to someone who needs a big bat (read: Yankees) and get a big arm in return (read: Phil Hughes or Jaba).Jake

Yeah, Jake. Anyone who’s followed this team knows that it needs to shed a big bat and add a big arm to to a rotation that has the best ERA in the National League. Sure, why not? Yeah, this is a better team with Joba than Tex. Makes perfect sense.

Then need to ADD a bat, not subtract a bat, Jake. Starting pitching is the strongest component of this team right now.

By KyleH

June 30, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this

Maybe Francoeur should grow a beard…until he has a 3 hit game or multihomer game whichever comes first. I knoiw you Francoeur bashers will prob say something like “He’ll be able to join ZZ Top before either of those happen” I think he just needs to relax and have a little fun. Watch some film of his swing over the last few years, too. He’ll be fine.

By kirknga

June 30, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this

Thanks DOB

I wonder how the Braves will handle it?

By tomahawkchop

June 30, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this

i live in atlanta…i love peachtree tv, but really the braves need to be back on wtbs lol…that sucks people who live in canada could get it…tbs sucks at showing other baseball games

By KyleH

June 30, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this

I heard a stat today. In 8 out of Jojos twelve starts, he has gotten 2 runs or less run of support. Poor Jojo, right. Hes definatly better than his record and his era was inflated by a few starts earlier this year. I’ve defended this kid since his first callup last year and its great to see him suceed.

By Deep Throat

June 30, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this

We’re never going to get Barry Bonds. I’d take him and 1.000+ OPS in a heartbeat. But for starters, MLB is colluding to keep him out of baseball. Two, Hank Aaron supposedly doesn’t want him and three, Bobby Cox would probably veto the idea if Wren asked him seriously about it.

But man would it be nice to get some real outfield production. Instead of watching the dynamic trio of Francoeur-Kotsay-Blanco. Good times, huh?

I can’t wait to see who takes Chipper’s place at third too for the next two weeks. Prado? Infante? Gotay? We’re doomed…

By kirknga

June 30, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this

Ralph

How do we really know yet that Brandon Jones is not really ready yet? He hasn’t played enough to know.

Many people who are down on him now are the same people who were very high on him last season and during the offseason. They pointed to his minor league stats and pronounced him a keeper. They liked what they saw during September. And now?

Do we really know if any of the rookies and younger vets are “ready”?

We all thought Frenchie was “ready” and now look what we got on our hands.

By prattvillenolzfan

June 30, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this

McFann

Why does it not surprise me that you have a MAC computer!!!!!!!!!!!!

By J.D.

June 30, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this

DOB, what is with everyone thinking pitching is the problem on this team…Baseball Tonight doesn’t like the staff, Mike and the Mad Dog up in New York think pitching is why the Bravos have been so mediocre. Before going and thinking about all these trade scenarios (a right handed hitting outfielder as priority #1)these people who think we should trade Tex (a mornonic idea at this point) should do their homework. Hitting is what ATL needs now, not pitching. And no, giving up Tex is not the way to get back in this race.

By TK

June 30, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this

I think this series with the Phils will give everyone an idea if the Braves are buyrs or sellers before the trade deadline. If the Braves do badly I think they sould look into being sellers. I am not sure this team could make up being swept.

By Roman Gal

June 30, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this

Dang! Jordan Schafer just came thisclose to hitting a grand slam in the top of the ninth with the tying run on 3rd.

Oh well.

By Greg

June 30, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this

I just watched Hampton’s 3 innings of work in Rome. I felt curiously sympathetic towards him, much more than I thought I ever would have. Anyway, he looked sharp. In the 2nd inning he had to get 5 outs, thanks to some poor defense by the Rome team. And in the 3rd, when he gave up (I think) 3 runs, it was pretty much all grounders. Having said that, I’m in no hurry to take any of these young starters out.

By Rahul

June 30, 2008 11:26 PM | Link to this

DOB, I completely agree with you that a Joba for Tex Trade would not help the Braves this year, but I would do that deal in a heartbeat. Sure, it would effectively be punting this year, but since Tex doesn’t seem too likely to re-sign, getting Joba would be amazing.

Would never happen though

By Rahul

June 30, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this

DOB, I completely agree with you that a Joba for Tex Trade would not help the Braves this year, but I would do that deal in a heartbeat. Sure, it would effectively be punting this year, but since Tex doesn’t seem too likely to re-sign, getting Joba would be amazing.

Would never happen though

By Ron_Paul

June 30, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this

Its time to resign Mark Texiera!!
Enough said.

By kirknga

June 30, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this

I think people in the national media are looking and seeing Hudson and 4 rookies. They then are thinking if they can remember any playoff team with 4 rookie starters?

There might be others who look at 4 rookie starters and think that it is a bit much to ask them to carry the load for a playoff team?

If the goal is still the playoffs then I can see 2 rookies, but 4? Two of which have a month or less at the major league level.

It isn’t that far fetched to think that this streak of all of the rookies is going to continue. The bigger shame is the offense not taking advantage of it.

By Greg in TN

June 30, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this

Evening folks…

Just thinking about who I believe should be on the NL roster for the mid-summer classic in the Bronx. In just looking over everything and reviewing what I’ve seen so far for the season, here’s what my NL ballot will look like:

• Catcher: BMac
• First Base: Lance Berkman, HOU
• Second Base: Dan Uggla, FLA
• Third Base: Chipper
• Shortstop: Rafael Furcal, LAD
• Outfield: Pat Burrell, PHL Ryan Ludwick STL Jason Bay PIT

If I were Clint Hurdle, my reserves would be: Geovany Soto CHC, Albert Pujols STL, Adrian Gonzalez SD, Chase Utley PHL, Aramis Ramirez CHC, David Wright NYM, Hanley Ramirez FLA, Matt Holliday COL, Nate McLouth PIT, Brian Giles SD, Ryan Church NYM and Carlos Beltran NYM.

My pitching staff would be: Tim Lincecum SD, Ben Sheets MIL, Wandy Rodriguez HOU, Dan Haren ARZ, Carlos Zambrano CHC, Brandon Webb ARZ, Jair Jurrjens, Joe Beimel LAD, Taylor Buchholz COL, Brian Fuentes COL and Brad Lidge PHL.

My starter for the game, Edinson Volquez of Cincy.

Beltran would have been the last to make the cut, just edging out Tex, who has hit much, much better of late. Really would love to see JJJ make the squad, but I realize Santana would likely get the nod over Jair. I know the popular choice is Chase Utley at second, but I Dan Uggla has had a great season at the plate and even though stats for both are comparable, Uggla has done better in the clutch according to the stats at Baseball Reference, which was my deciding factor.

Chipper will make it, McCann will make it also although I believe he deserves to start. We could also see Tex selected to join. I hope Chipper will be able to play, it’d be a shame for him to miss the last chance to play in the Bronx.

By Supes

June 30, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this

DOB thanks for the new blog.

Well…some good news today. The Mets lost, the Cards keep finding ways to win with half their team on the DL…hopefully the Braves follow suit at some point.

How about the Marlins? Another dramatic win. They refuse to fold and go away…making the NL East mediocre and tough to win, b/c you’ve gotta essentially beat 3 teams (any way you look at it…Phillies, Marlins and Mets) if you are going to win the division.

The Numbers on Jeff as abismal, but I will say this. I don’t believe Jeff will get better or have better results by ridding the pine for a few days. I think he needs to go away for a while, work on his swing and approach at the plate in the minors and decide that he doesn’t need to jack 30 plus HR per year to be a productive player in the majors. I think Jeff has to re-learn how to hit all over again, not sure but if he watches video, and I’m sure he does or has…of his hitting last year…a lot more hits to center/right, he stayed back, didn’t fly open. Made contact. Solid contact too, drove in plenty of RISP.

That comment by Frank Wren about Jeff is quite discouraging to read. ‘Ride it out’ up here says Frank…OK, and while that is happeing, he’ll continue to hurt this team with his lack of production. I mean that kind of attitude about him turning around is very strage, b/c Jeff has shown no signs, zero signs of getting on track. So while we are waiting for him to get on track, where are the signs of progress? Where are the hard hit balls right at people, the line drives to center and right on the button? Where is the situation hitting? How about his slumping defense? Another issue he can work on in the minors. Yet Jeff still starting every game.

I will say this, he tries. You can tell he’s not lazy, I’m sure he is working at it…but there is zero progress on the field in game situations when it matters.

By keylargo

June 30, 2008 11:44 PM | Link to this

We seem to be able to play .500 ball with Tex signed to a $12.5M contract. You know what? We’ll play .500 ball with him signed to a $25M contract only there will be very few affordable options left.

By Ralph

June 30, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this

prattvillenolzfan. Jones, is going to be a star some day, but he strikes out, at least twice a game, then, he takes the all do or nothing swing, the Braves, are knowing for and he looks unsure of himself in the out field. The same problems that beholds, B. Jones, applies to B. Lillibridge, not ready. They are playing for a team, that strike out is way to go, sometimes, I don’t know why they carry a bat to home plate, take way to many good pitch’s. Their inability to produce on a timely basis, doesn’t happen just once in a while, but way t to many times, that’s one of the many reasons they not in first play.

By Daybed Wagmoe

July 1, 2008 12:01 AM | Link to this

David Wright committed his 12th error of the season. That’s 4 more than Chipper had last year and more than halfway to last year’s total.

Looks like he’s on his way to a second consecutive Gold Glove.

By LAKnox

July 1, 2008 12:02 AM | Link to this

David, I was in Banff, Alberta, Canada 3 weeks ago and experienced the same thing…Peachtree TV on the hotel TV! Good news was I didn’t have to watch through the p** poor MLBTV feed online, I could just flip the TV on. But I thought it was odd???

By rupert

July 1, 2008 12:04 AM | Link to this

DOB, i know this would not be your realm but it would be interesting to see what the ratings are for the shows in the braves slot, (i.e. house of payne or engval show etc.), just can’t see them consistently beating a braves phils series, has anyone heard how the sunday game of the week is doing? having chip must hurt the ratings some (only kidding but sometimes he is awful)

By NO MORE BOBBY

July 1, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this

So O’Brien… being a music lover like myself. Was wondering what song you would pick to sum up the first half of this 2008 Braves season?

Mine would be Where are we going? by Marvin Gaye.

Tell me, where are we going? What’s the future showing? Where are we headed? With all that’s going on where are we getting?

I was going to pick LOSER by Beck but trying to stay some kind of positive here.

By Katrina

July 1, 2008 12:07 AM | Link to this

I called DishNetwork about a month ago. I went on and one for about 45 mins to an hr about when I upgraded my service, They took off SportSouth. I told them I was considering going to DirectTV. The next day I had SportSouth on my tv. I think i should of had it anyways, but any 45 min to hour rant helped me. All I has was FSN. I see more games now! All I need now is PeachTree TV!

By Lou Vales

July 1, 2008 12:08 AM | Link to this

Dear David, Can’t believe you suggested to these morons who can’t get the Braves on TV to just pack their bags and move to Toronto—Don’t you know some of them will. Well, as soon as they can locate Canada on a map. Can just imagine some of these Phi Beta Kappas trying to clear customs while caring their Andruw Jones Strip Club Bobblehead Dolls. Hopefully nobody will wear a Hampton jersey. That might trigger a program that attempts to find missing persons.

By Katrina

July 1, 2008 12:12 AM | Link to this

Can please someone tell me where I can stay for a week for a reasonable price in ATL! Its expensive! I’m coming for the Braves vs Cubs series and Braves vs Giants series in August! Hopefully the Bravos will be closer to first by then.

By David O'Brien

July 1, 2008 12:29 AM | Link to this

No More, how ’ bout Dylan’s “Hard Times?”

Let us pause in life’s pleasures and count its many tears

While we all sup sorrow with the poor

There’s a song that will linger forever in our ears

Oh, hard times, come again no more.

By David O'Brien

July 1, 2008 12:32 AM | Link to this

Or perhaps Run-DMC’s “Hard Times”:

Hard times can take you on a natural trip

So keep your balance, and don’t you slip

Hard times is nothing new on me

I’m gonna use my strong mentality

Like the cream of the crop, like the crop of the cream

B-b-beating hard times, that is my theme

Hard times in life, hard times in death

I’m gonna keep on fighting to my very last breath

By BA

July 1, 2008 12:40 AM | Link to this

Dylan to DMC? Nice range, DOB

By David O'Brien

July 1, 2008 12:41 AM | Link to this

No More: I’ve got it. Let’s personalize it for a couple of old lion pitchers and go with Sinatra’s “September of My Years.”

One day turns around, and it’s summer

Next day turns around, and it’s fall

and the springs and the winters of a my life time

Whatever happened to them all …

By Mike Hampton's Offshore Bank Account

July 1, 2008 12:46 AM | Link to this

Got Dish Network, they refuse to answer any and all e mails about adding Peachtree TV, many of my friends have Direct TV and they added Peachtree early in the season. As soon as my agreement, expires in January, I will be returning to Direct TV if this situation is not rectified soon.

By BA

July 1, 2008 12:48 AM | Link to this

What about Cream’s version of “Born Under a Bad Sign”.

By GeorgetownKid

July 1, 2008 12:49 AM | Link to this

Mr. O’Brien,

With the relatively unimpressive play of B. Jones and Lilibridge in their short times in Atlanta (barring Jones’ initial hot streak), and with their poor seasons in Richmond, do you think that the Braves have re-adjusted their expectations for these two prospects?

I had the impression that the organization projected them as starting-calibre players at the big-league level, though not necessarily as star-calibre prospects. Do you think the Braves still view Jones and Lilibridge as favorably as they did at the end of last season.

By GeorgetownKid

July 1, 2008 1:00 AM | Link to this

Mr. O’Brien,

I am also impressed by the fact that you jump from Dylan to DMC. You definitely know your stuff.

I have another quick question for you on which I would love to read your opinion. With Scott Thorman playing rather well now in Richmond, why wouldn’t the Braves activate him and play him over Norton?

What does Norton do that Thorman could not? They would hit for a comparable average, but Thorman has more power potential. And at least Thorman is young, so we could, at the very least, hope that he would improve as the season wore on, as opposed to Norton, who is simply a mediocre player in whom Bobby seems to have too much confidence (routinely batting him 5th).

And, Thorman would be cheaper.

By Roy Wood

July 1, 2008 1:00 AM | Link to this

I wish Wtbs was peachtree in Texas I Have watched the braves on TV TBS for 20 yrs now even when they televise a game its someone i could care less about.I wish I could get Sports South or anyone that had the Braves on.

By BA

July 1, 2008 1:02 AM | Link to this

I don’t think Jones OR ‘Lil Bridge has been with Atlanta long enough to pass any kind of judgement, good or bad. Not enough AB’s, GeorgeTown. My opinion, for what it’s worth. DOB, for the aforementioned pitchers, “Old Man” by Neil Young. Probably Jurrgens should be singing it to them.

By BA

July 1, 2008 1:12 AM | Link to this

There is one reason Norton remains. It’s the cool “Pulp Fiction” music when he comes to bat. Actually, I think it’s because Cox loves veteran players and if Thorman is going to tap his full potential he needs to play and get his four AB’s a day. I’m not answering these questions because I think I’m a big shot, just trying to get the dialogue flowing.

By Roman Gal

July 1, 2008 1:17 AM | Link to this

During the M-Braves game, the commentator said that Prado would be joining the Atlanta Braves on Wednesday.

By keylargo

July 1, 2008 1:23 AM | Link to this

Thorman does have that “out of options” problem. But how does it work once he has cleared waivers? I may be wrong.

By GeorgetownKid

July 1, 2008 1:25 AM | Link to this

BA

I’m a big Bobby Cox supporter - I think we are lucky to have him - but I don’t understand his confidence in Norton. I get why he has to play guys like Gotay, and I even get why Norton has to be in the lineup more often than not. But he routinely bats Norton 5th (as opposed to 7th, 8th, or 9th where he belongs).

If Norton were to play a full season, he would hit .235 with 14HR (at most). That is pretty darn mediocre. Thorman could do that, if not better.

If we have B. Jones and Lilibridge up here, why not Thorman? He is playing better right now than either Jones or Lilibridge were playing before they were called up.

And, again, Thorman would be cheaper than Norton, and he has the potential to improve.

That’s just my opinion. I love it when people answer my posts BA.

By TexasBrave

July 1, 2008 1:26 AM | Link to this

BA you are correct in you anaylisis that plus Norton can play 2nd and 3rd if need be where Thorman cannot. Also eventhough Thor has a few dingers he has only hit .249 thus far against AAA pitching.

By Ruben Gotay

July 1, 2008 1:26 AM | Link to this

Thanks, R-Gal. I’ll get to work on my resume.

By double deuce

July 1, 2008 1:27 AM | Link to this

Katrina Try Francouer’s house. According to the blog he should be in the minors by then.

It seems as though the blog is more of a vent for most rather than a conversation. I honestly believe that if the Braves were in first place, 24 of the 25 on the roster were having career years, the entire blog would be about the guy who wasn’t. This year’s team has quite a few targets so it gets spread around pretty well. People should remember that Francouer is 24 years old, getting paid less than most on the team, is playing under the pressure of enormous expectations, and is costing himself a pile of cash with this dissappointing year. I hardly believe he’s doing it on purpose and also believe he will work his way out and become a great player. Maybe not the next Chipper, but one of the better outfielders in baseball.

By BA

July 1, 2008 1:31 AM | Link to this

Is it absurd to consider moving KJ back to left field and starting Prado? I’ve always thought Prado is a .300 hitting #2 hitter waiting to happen.

By Carolina Matt

July 1, 2008 1:34 AM | Link to this

Giving Thorman more at bats in Richmond is what I think the Braves are hoping will help him mature and better develop as a player…I also think Norton proves more versatile in the field and has shown to be a much better pinch-hitter than Thorman…

By BA

July 1, 2008 1:42 AM | Link to this

Nice to see Bobby get some love, G-town. He gets tarred and feathered here all day long by at best misinformed people. Without Cox (and Mcdowell) I shudder to think what this team’s record would be. Maybe I’m an eternal optimist, but I think getting Prado and especially Kotsay is going to help a lot. Anybody else listen to Hammy pitch tonight? Sounds like his boobs felt just fine. Shamus Thacker would have been so proud.

By BA

July 1, 2008 1:45 AM | Link to this

The guy I’d like to see called up is Canazares. Doesn’t seem very likely. But he’s been tearing the cover off down (or up) there all year long.

By bravos2249

July 1, 2008 1:46 AM | Link to this

with the post about the medis comments about the rotation. How can they say they like the Cards, Mets, Cubs or even Brewers better. If I remember correctly out of all of those teams only Pedro has been to the WS more than once right? Anyway regardless would the media like our roatation with Smoltz Hudson and Glavine combined 18 wins? probably because of the names. In fact this is a realitively unexperienced postseadon rotation. Even Hudson has never been past a divison series. We don’t even know if we’ll get there but to not even acknowledge a rotation that is made up of these guys it sickening to them. But hey they just may be the best kept secret in baseball; in fact for about the whole season this pitching staff( even with Mr. 8.22) ALL of them even the bullpen has been in the top 3 in the NL in era and has never been mentioned for the fact of the teams record. But we hear all about Mr. Volquezs’ era.

By Carolina Matt

July 1, 2008 1:47 AM | Link to this

Georgetown…you’re Thorman vs. Norton got me interested, and here is what I’ve come up with:

Norton is actually a career .251 hitter. In the last two years with Tampa Bay (173 games) Norton had 21 HR and 68 RBI in 496 at AB.

In Thorman’s career (175 games) he has 16 HR and 50 RBI in 415 AB and is a .221 hitter.

Norton on the other hand had 124 SO to Thorman’s 91 but Norton walked 72 times to Thorman’s 19…

…anyways, just food for thought…

By Bob

July 1, 2008 1:50 AM | Link to this

WPCH is just like any other local station in their local DMA. If you are in Statesboro or anywhere else outside the local Atlanta market which is only most of N Ga and a couple of Al counties you can’t get WPCH period. The people to thank for this is the National A*. of Broadcasters and your local channels that support the NAB which are pretty much all the industry, the lobbying and campaign dollars that go to politicians on both sides of the isle have a stranglehold on all TV policy and not allowing the American people to get the local channels they want where they want is a real biggie for these anti competition protectionist folks. It’s unAmerican. Of course Canada has their own TV issues and of course socialized health care that is proven to be a failure. I guess we should be thankful we aren’t there if we get very sick. We might just see the last Braves games we ever see a bit sooner than we should!!!!

By THB

July 1, 2008 1:59 AM | Link to this

It’s an off-day, so how about a minors update:

Our second round draft pick, Zeke Spurill, pitched 5 shutout innings and got the win for the GCL Braves. They won 4-2.

Jon Gilmore is hitting .308 since going back to Danville, and Casey Hodges pitched 5.1 innings with 1 ER.

Rome won 11-6 while Jason Heyward went 3 for 4 with a grand slam, 5 RBI, and 2 R. Freddie Freeman went 2 for 5 with 2 RBI.

Myrtle Beach won 4-2, with Jeff Lyman getting the win. Gorkys went 2 for 5 with a SB while Tyler Flowers went 3 for 4 with 2 doubles, 2 R and 1 RBI.

Mississippi lost 6-5 but Kala Kaaihue hit 2 HR and had 3 RBI. Schafer went 1 for 5 and Prado went 1 for 4. Tommy Hanson started the game but only pitched 3 innings giving up 1 run on 5 hits, 3 walks, and 2 K’s.

Basically, our top prospects for next year are Heyward, Schafer, Gorkys, Hanson, Freeman, and Teheran. The most underrated prospect we have is Tyler Flowers. He is only hitting .270 in High-A, but his OBP is .415 and he has more walks (60) than K’s (59). He also has 9 HR and 47 RBI. I can easily see him as a future top prospect, and his average has been steadily rising. Also, Jon Gilmore has been doing much, much better. He’s said to be Chipper’s replacement. Next year’s top prospects will be interesting and most are very good.

By Cherokee

July 1, 2008 2:03 AM | Link to this

I didn’t really know he was “freakin’ huge”, either. (Though he said in our program that his “current obsession” was McDonald’s…sorry. Your sister means muscular, off course, right? LOL…sorry…really…)McFann

he’s 6’4” and averages between 220-230 maybe a bit less toward the end of the season. not small, but not really huge either.

By nolie

July 1, 2008 2:29 AM | Link to this

Jones, is going to be a star some day*Ralph8

Oh I seriously doubt that

By nolie

July 1, 2008 2:41 AM | Link to this

Ok I don’t mean to be obsessive since I found out about it, but as far as I can tell Stockman still hasn’t pitched since he got sent down. What’s up with that… anyone? Is there really a pitcher named Phillip Matthew Stockman anywhere in the Braves organization? Was he deported back to the UK? Was he abducted by aliens? He seems too large for them not to notice that he has seemingly disappeared. Inquiring minds want to know.

By nolie

July 1, 2008 3:00 AM | Link to this

And, again, Thorman would be cheaper than Norton, and he has the potential to improve.Georgetown Kid

For one thing, Norton is more versatile. He can play 1st,3rd,LF or RF if needed and he is decent off the bench. Remember that he won a couple of games when he first was signed. He is being pressed into a position lately where he shouldn’t be with all the injuries. As a bench/occasional starter he is adequate.

Thor needs to play every day if he is ever going to improve. I have never thought that he would be an adequate MLB player since I watched him a good bit in the minors over the years, but if he is ever gonna have a chance he won’t get it done sitting on the bench up here.

By nolie

July 1, 2008 3:12 AM | Link to this

plus Norton can play 2nd and 3rd if need be where Thorman cannot. TexasBrave

third ..yes, second.. not so much. he played one game in the bigs 10 years ago. corner infield, corner outfield are by far the most likely

By double deuce

July 1, 2008 3:15 AM | Link to this

THB What about Kaaihue? He has always had power. Is he close to being major league ready?

By P-Town Brave

July 1, 2008 3:19 AM | Link to this

BA

Thank you for hitting the nail right on the head…

Prado should be our starting 2b…like I said, he’s a future Placido Polanco waiting to happen…

KJ can either move back to the OF or be one of a few pieces in a trade for an OF…

Maybe we could send him in a deal to PIT for Jason Bay…or get someone off the radar since he’s “supposedly” such a hot commodity…or at least thats what I have been told to believe…

I’d even be up for moving Kotsay to RF and staying w/ Gregor in CF for now and platooning Kelly and Francine(even though he doesn’t deserve the AB’s) in LF…

It would make for an interesting scenario and finally make the players accountable for what they have done on the field…

But yeah, that’ll never happen…I mean this is Bobby we’re talkin about!

By nolie

July 1, 2008 3:45 AM | Link to this

But yeah, that’ll never happen…I mean this is Bobby we’re talkin about!PtownBrave

Wren obviously feels the same way. Most baseball people would.

By Ronald Millsaps

July 1, 2008 6:15 AM | Link to this

Wow. It’s too cool for a morning jog on July 1, but not too cool to go back to bed on an off day after I type some thoughts. :)

Suggestions for this team…

Jeff Francoeur—Get comfortable in the batter’s box. You’re listening to a lot of people tell you how to approach your at-bats, and just because you don’t get the results you want immediately doesn’t mean you haven’t had some good at-bats/swings. I think you might be making too many adjustments and could be like the proverbial guy digging for gold who needs fifteen hacks with his shovel to get there but is only giving five. (I don’t know that that’s the case here, but I do know it’s possible to make an adjustment when one’s not needed and start “digging for gold” elsewhere, where it’s not.

Chipper Jones—I’d consider water therapy, even if it’s just wading in a pool for 15-20 minutes daily. Joe Simpson, as I recall, once spoke about the soothing effects of water and something about how student-athletes growing up tend to spend more time swimming than adults and have, subsequently, better reactions to injuries.

As for the Braves, I wouldn’t put Chipper on the DL. If he can pinch-hit at all over the next 15 days, that would be great, and with all these one-run losses, he’s a great guy (er, the best guy) to use when you’re down two with two on, for example. He really has outplayed everyone else in the game, and I wouldn’t do other teams a favor by taking this pinch-hit weapon off the roster, even if it means doing without a quality everyday player for the next 15 days.

Honestly, it’s almost funny the way he does it: He gets off the bench, gets a hit, and sits back down. I was at Turner Field last Tuesday night when he got introduced, and it was a great atmosphere to be a part of. I hope he can pinch-hit again tonight and provide the same drama. Chase Utley can take note and see what an MVP looks like.

By Scott from Fairburn

July 1, 2008 6:51 AM | Link to this

Perhaps SportsSouth could give Frenchy a break in these troubled times by NOT repeatedly airing … The Lord of Parkview: The Legend of Jeff Franceour

By Paddy

July 1, 2008 6:55 AM | Link to this

I feel your pain…my cable company lists in their on-screen directory the Braves game is available. It lies most of the time. Example: the last three posted Braves games were not on; in its place was, a re-run of a WNBA game, a lacross game and a soccer match. If my wife didn’t work for the cable company and I get it free I would have cancelled. It does not help the dissapointment.

By Jeff321

July 1, 2008 7:40 AM | Link to this

There might be others who look at 4 rookie starters and think that it is a bit much to ask them to carry the load for a playoff team?

This isn’t a playoff team, let that sink in and everything will be so clear. What if I told you Hampton or Glavine aren’t better than anyone in the starting rotation right now? What if I said the problem isn’t the starting pitching but the anemic bats, bullpen, and the bad decision making of the HOF manager? Sure I can acknowledge Glavine and to a much lesser extent, Hamptons’ success in the past. However, I tend to live by “what have you done for me lately” rather than the back of baseball cards.

As I keep saying, the only trade the Braves need to make is anyone to replace Frenchy. So, if you keep him and bring someone else in, guess WHO still has to bat and field? MORE OF THE SAME!

By letigre'

July 1, 2008 7:43 AM | Link to this

I don’t know how much the Braves are making with their “new” TV deal, but they need to divide it by the number of fans who are being lost because of it. I’ve seen one Braves game on TV this season - on ESPN. I’ve been a fan since the LAST time they were losing, in the 80’s. But then, what’s the big deal when you’re raking in the dough!!!!!!!!!!

By Will

July 1, 2008 8:07 AM | Link to this

Dont care if its only July 1 this is a must win series. They already kind of survived that flop job the last time Phillies came to town, but cant afford anything like that again. I dont really have my hopes up cause the Phillies are a better baseball team and due to break out, but hopefully it doesnt happen in the next 3 days.

By JT

July 1, 2008 8:12 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Enough with the Stupid songs already!!

By Biff Pocaroba

July 1, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this

letigre, it’s wasn’t the Braves decision to go off of TBS and I would seriously doubt they are making more money but not being on it. The move was made by the owner of TBS, TimeWarner. They chose to unload the team and, now that they don’t own them, have no interest in promoting them by showing the games. That simple. We, the fans, are the losers but to paint the Braves as choosing money of our interests is just not accurate.

By Scott

July 1, 2008 8:41 AM | Link to this

“Prado should be our starting 2b…like I said, he’s a future Placido Polanco waiting to happen…

KJ can either move back to the OF or be one of a few pieces in a trade for an OF…”

Uh… no. KJ has now proven over more than a year that he can play at this level very well. He has a good average, has some pop and speed and his slugging and OBP for a 2nd baseman are great.

Why would you want to move a cheap proven player to make room for a guy who has never even been that high of a prospect? Prado doesn’t hit for power… he doesn’t steal bases… he wouldn’t be a 300+ hitter…. and while his glove is better than KJs, he’s looked pretty bad at times at 2nd as well (with a lot less time there no less).

KJ will stay at 2nd base and Prado will remain a bench guy. Plain and simple.

By UGA72

July 1, 2008 8:54 AM | Link to this

I live on the South Carolina coast and subscribe to Time Warner Cable, the only cable option we have here. They carry Peachtree TV but do not carry Sports South. I have asked several times as to why we do not receive Sports South while other areas of the state do and representatives of the cable company in Columbia expressed surprise that we weren’t receiving Sports South as part of our basic cable. The response I received at my local office was: “We only receive requests for Sports South during baseball season.” Unacceptable.

By Daybed Wagmoe

July 1, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this

Why give up our future Chase Utley (KJ) for a future Placido Polanco (Prado)???

By McFann©

July 1, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

prattvillenolzfan Why does it not surprise me that you have a MAC computer!!!!!!!!!!!!

It does seem to fit, don’t it? ; )

Greg in TN—

I like your NL All-Star roster a lot. I think Jair should go…People always talk about Timmy going, but hey—Jair has a better record (8-3 to Timmy’s 8-6), and a better ERA (2.94 to Tim’s 3.31). He’s also given up less homers, and he’s struck out two more guys.

The way the vote count looks now, if Chipper can’t start, and they go with the guy with the second most votes at 3B, there will be 4 Cubs starting the game!!

It would look like this:

C—Cubs, 1B—Astros, 2B—Phillies, 3B—Cubs, SS—Marlins, OF—Cubs, Cubs, Reds.

That is wrong. It should look like this:

C—Braves, 1B—Astros, 2B—Phillies, 3B—Braves, SS—Marlins, OF—Cubs (one of the two), Brewers (Braun), Pirates (Nady).

ONLY TWO DAYS LEFT TO VOTE!!

YOU DECIDE 2008!!

VOTE FOR MCCANN!!

By TommyP

July 1, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this

What’s sad is that the Braves could have really gotten by (and still can) without making any deals at all.

The problem is that this team just can’t play fundamental baseball. How many times do we need to put guys in scoring position with less than 2 outs and not plate him?

Moving runners over by hitting behind them, a fly ball to bring in a run, shortening the swing with 2 strikes, widening your strike zone with 2 strikes, simply putting wood on the ball to bring a run in…..we constantly fail at this and many other things.

It’s time we take a look at the philosophy of the overall “system” in place. Are these tiny (yet extremely important) details of the game being overlooked in the minors? Or perhaps the emphasis just isn’t strong enough?

A couple of teams from the past used to instill a certain “way” of playing baseball in every player from the rookie leagues to the majors. The Dodgers and the Orioles. You often heard them talk about how players played the game “the Oriole way.”

One current team that seems to have this in place is the Minnesota Twins. They simply play the game the right way, “the Twins way.”

Small payroll, no house-hold names anymore (dealt Johan, allowed Hunter to leave via FA) but a bunch of guys that do the little things to win.

Years ago I used to think it was Tom Kelly that was responsible for their success. Then I thought it was GM Terry Ryan. Then I looked at Gardenhire.

It’s none of them individually. It’s all of them as a system.

The Braves need to seriously look at their team mantra for the entire system.

We HAVE guys on base most of the time……

By brent a.

July 1, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this

Perhaps SportsSouth could give Frenchy a break in these troubled times by NOT repeatedly airing … The Lord of Parkview: The Legend of Jeff Franceour

Well, since this point was made, I’ll throw in my 2 cents.

For the last 2 years, I have cringed at all of the coverage Jeff Francoeur has received in this town. And no, I’m not talking about the Delta commercials. That’s just smart on the part of his agent to get him those kind of deals.

I’m talking about all the pictures of he and his fiancee/wife in the AJC, combined with the pictures of their house, and the backstory about how they plan to build their dream home in the future (I assume some time after Jeff signs that lucrative extension he has reportedly turned down in the past). Then, there was his presence at the announcement that the Richmond Braves would be moving to Gwinnet, including Jeff’s comments that, “I’m gonna try to get it worked into my contract to let me play about 15-20 games a year up here.” HA-HA! Guess what, Jeff? It may happen whether you are laughing about it or not.

My point is simply that with all the pressure athletes are under as it is, I just hate seeing young athletes allow people to look so deeply into their personal lives.
Yes, I understand that athletes need to give back to the community, and invariably, the media will show up to cover some of these events (like passing out turkeys on Thanksgiving); however, when you are still a young, inconsistent player, things like showing off your Duluth home just seems like a bit too much. And I base this not only his on-field performance, but also on the number of off the field problems we see athletes have throughout their lives and careers.

IMO, it’s just wise for an athlete to keep his personal life, personal, especially a young athlete, who is not well established.

By Kerrie

July 1, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

wow DOB your brilliant…guess you forgot to check the fact that Gotay has the best batting average in interleague play..but I guess since you were there and not watching the games you didn’t happen to hear Joe and boog talking about that….and well I guess if you don’t get much playing time but a pinch hit here or there and than full time once someone is injured it can be hard to get a streak going. and it sure is funny that you think Escobar is what this team needs..I see him as nothing more than poison and if he doesn’t get that attitude straightened out he could send more players to that feared DL. Get a clue you moron!

By TommyP

July 1, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this

Daybed: KJ is a future Utley??????

And if Prado ever turns out to be half the player Polanco is, we’ll be a MUCH better team for it.

By David O'Brien

July 1, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

DOB,

Enough with the Stupid songs already!!JT

Yeah!! Enough with Stupid songs … and with Random capitalization!! Also, down with Multiple exclamation marks!!!

By David O'Brien

July 1, 2008 9:49 AM | Link to this

Kerrie, great post at 9:38. Especially the last line.

If I’d heard Joe and Boog talking about his average in interleague play, I sure wouldn’t have written what I wrote, which is that he’s hit .203 overall, 2-for-18 in the 2-hole, and 3-for-22 with eight strikeouts against lefties.

If I’d known about his average in interleague games, that would have changed my opinion.

By McFann©

July 1, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

Brent A.—

I couldn’t agree with you more!

By Random

July 1, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this

Hey, McFann —

How goes it?

I’ve voted for McCann three times now (x25), and plan to do so a few more times.

The 2nd and 3rd times I voted, I also put McCann as a write-in vote for OF. Maybe thet’ll count those votes for him, too. (Probably not, but it’s easy enough and couldn’t hurt.)

Later.

By jim

July 1, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this

Song for Jeff Francouer — Glory Days.

Part of him is still the high school hero and the other part is trying to figure out what has happened since and trying to turn back the clock with one great swing of the bat.

By Kerrie

July 1, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this

My point is that is why Bobby put him in the 2 hole… While Ruben Gotay is a career .239 hitter against his own league, his .380 average in interleague games is the best ever among players with at least 75 plate appearances. (straight from the washington post)

I just think people don’t get enough credit for filling in wherever they are asked to fill in…..most of the comments on these blogs are ridiculous and at most I never read them unless I Am told there is one worth reading

By McFann©

July 1, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

I especially agree with Brent A.’s last paragraph (starting with “IMO”). Sorry, forgot that in my last post.

Later! (Much later!)

By David O'Brien

July 1, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

Scott From Fairburn, a lot of us have said the same thing about the Francoeur story they play ad nauseum. I know he cringes as much as we do when they continue to air it in rain delays.

Brent A, I agree with the gist of your post. Personally, I thought our offseason coverage was too much.

By F Brown

July 1, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this

We live in the State of Georgia and can’t watch the Braves when they are on Peachtree TV. We have Dish Network in Northeast GA and can’t get that station and been requesting it with no results. We’ve gone back to the old days and are listening on the radio. We also have to watch SC & NC news and the AJC won’t bring the newspaper up here anymore either! We live in Northeast GA but we’re not treated like Georgia residents (except at tax time)! Unhappy in Dewy Rose, GA

By David O'Brien

July 1, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

What about Kaaihue? He has always had power. Is he close to being major league ready?Double Deuce

Kaaihue is hitting .251 with 81 strikeouts (48 walks) in 235 at-bats in Double-A. Ten homers aren’t enough to balance out that average and those strikeouts.

By jim

July 1, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this

TommyP,

We’ve seen KJ for a year and 1/2 now learning a new position of the fly and hitting about 280 with a lot of doubles. He is not now and may never become Chase Utley, but then there are 29 other 2nd basemen in the majors for which that is also true. He is a good offensive player who is improving and becoming more comfortable with his new position. We have seen Prado for brief stretches over the same period of time. He has been a good reserve, but there is no consensus that he would develop into as dependable a regular as the incumbent. From what we have seen we can hope that he will develop into another Omar Infante. Why is it on this blog that every player on the roster except possibly Chipper and McCann has a counterpart on the bench or in the minors that would be an immediate upgrade based largely on the evidence that we have rarely or never seen the latter perform, and once we do see this player on a longer term basis he is immediately discarded for the next great brave hope in the offing? Despite what Overlord and a few others may think, 2nd base is not one of our problems, and Prado is not the missing piece in our offense.

By FloridaBrave

July 1, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

THB,

Check out Eric Campbell since his return. Something like 33 RBIs in 32 games and his average is up 30 points or so. He was a former top prospect so he’s showing we can’t totally stick the fork in him yet.

This C in GCL Daniel Eloriaga-Matra was considered an elite prospect going into his SR. year but he got injured and disappointed his SR. year I believe. Braves scooped him up in the later rounds and he’s off to a hot start.

In GCL, Cory Rasmus coming off major arm surgery has yet to allow an earned run. He throws gas…

Craig Kimbrell, another high pick this year, has yet to allow an earned run yet in Danville and has 4 saves.

1B Gerardo Rodriguez has 6 HR in 11 games. Should be called up but with Freeman at 1st in Rome, where does he play?

Cody Johnson’s average has jumped 15 or so points in the last week. There’s a name you don’t hear too much about anymore…

By Murphy

July 1, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

McFann:

I voted 50 times for those guys! Hope it gets closer….by the way, Nate McLouth for the Pirates should be their rep, not Nady.

By Goodoleboy58

July 1, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

Tex has really impressed me the last couple weeks… he is tops in the NL and close to tops RBI’s in the past 30 days… Can’t complain about that… we just need to keep setting the table.. preferably with Escobar instead of Gotay… I was highly critical of Tex (maybe not publicly) but he definitely isn’t the problem lately.

By TommyP

July 1, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

Jim: Have no idea why you responded to me about the KJ and Prado note.

I was calling someone else out for referring to KJ as “our future Utley” and for the ridiculous comparison of Prado to Polanco, an excellent player.

By TBraveFan

July 1, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

Kerrie I agree that way too many times, players who don’t get much playing time or at bats, etc. are dogged for not having the same stats as every day players. I can think of 4 or 5 right now - including Corky and Ruben - that don’t get credit for what they do when they are needed in a pinch or only every 5 days or so (if that)…. Case in point - Corky provided the absolute ONLY offense in Chicago June 11 - and what does FOX do? Interviews some doofus Cubs fan…

By Lee in S GA

July 1, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

We’ve gone back to the old days and are listening on the radio. F Brown

Having Dish Network also, I do the same thing. Growing up in the 70’s made me appreciate the games on radio and I still do. I am luckier than a lot of fans I suppose, I can watch all games not affiliated w/Peachtree T.V.

By flange1

July 1, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

I might be wrong, but I think the poster was suggesting that we move KJ to LF and play Prado at 2B.

That would give us both “Utley” and “Polanco” in the starting lineup.

The real issue with this concept is to get better players on the field the same time.

If KJ and Prado are better than KJ and B Jones or KJ and Diaz or KJ and Blanco, then it might be a good idea to move KJ to left.

The other thought is to trade for a bat in LF, keep KJ at 2B and let Prado be a backup.

I think that is what everyone is talking about.

If not, then it should be!!! (LOL :) )

By Murphy

July 1, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this

McFann:

I voted 50 times for those guys! Hope it gets closer….by the way, Nate McLouth for the Pirates should be their rep, not Nady.

By Murphy

July 1, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this

McFann:

I voted 50 times for those guys! Hope it gets closer….by the way, Nate McLouth for the Pirates should be their rep, not Nady.

By jim

July 1, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

Sorry Tommy, Scott posted the original note that I was referring to.

For those wanting to trade Tex for Joba (It would never happen), we could have had Joba in the 2006 draft but opted for Cody Johnson instead. Johnson was considered a reach at the position in which he was drafted and has tantalized with his power but disappointed with his strikeouts ever since. Did we pass on Joba because of a price tag, our preference for HS over college talent, or did our scouts miss something?

By KC

July 1, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this

Looks like Hampton is progressing nicely. Thing is… he’s probably going to have to prove more than just health. I think he’s going to need to show that he’s really sharp before joining the rotation. Because right now, it’s not going to be easy to improve on ANY of the 5 starters he might replace.

It’ll be interesting to see what happens if Hampton’s ready to join the rotation right after the break.

I think one of 3 things will happen:

1 - Campillo moved to the bullpen (where he’s already pitched effectively this year. It’s hard to take a guy who is pitching this well, out of the rotation… but it would add much needed depth to the bullpen.

2 - Move Morton to the pen. Certainly has the stuff to be a late-inning reliever. We all know his future is in the rotation, but if he can make the adjustment, he could help the pen.

3 - Send Morton back to AAA (for no other reason than to keep him starting every 5th day).

The way Morton and Campillo pitch over the next 2 weeks could decide it. Personally, as long as both Campillo and Morton continue to pitch well… I say - whichever one of them could help the bullpen the most… that’s the guy to move to the pen.

By glove51

July 1, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

DOB: Great song from a great band. Coincidentally, I just received last week 2CD’s with the complete recording of Wilco’s show at the Cain’s Ballroom here in Tulsa, which I also attended, in March. It was quite a show and is a real good quality recording.

I could send you a copy if you want, if you have a P.O. Box or something.

By Moby Grape

July 1, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this

Why give up our future Chase Utley (KJ) for a future Placido Polanco (Prado)???Daybed

don’t know if that was TIC, but Johnson is never gonna be Utley and Prado is never gonna be Polanco even though I like both guys.

By flange1

July 1, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this

KC,

I wonder if their is another option,

use a 6 man rotation with Hudson starting every 5th day.

That way you could help to minimize the number of innings that all of the rookies pitch and get some work out of Hampton.

Thoughts?

By Lee in S GA

July 1, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

Johnson is never gonna be Utley and Prado is never gonna be Polanco even though I like both guys.

agreed……I suppose Gregor Blanco is the next Ricky Henderson also.

By PhilIsTheMan

July 1, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

FREE STOCKMAN!!!

By Random

July 1, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

monty on Bobby Cox: “How would a college basketball coach be considered who took his team to the Final 4 every year for 14 consecutive years, reguardless if they only won the Big One once? Would there be some dissapointment? Sure! But that coach would be revered by all who know anything about the game. Even if that program were Duke or North Carolina or Kentucky [or KU], who always get the best players.”

If you want to use the NCAA BB Tourney as an analogy, I think it’d be more accurate to say that Cox took the Braves to the Elite Eight (not the Final Four) “every year for 14 consecutive years” (if you include the pre-wild card years of ‘91-‘93).

He took them to the Final Four (LCS) only nine times in the last sixteen years (and none since ‘01, over six years ago), and to the championship game only five times (and none since ‘99, over eight years ago), of which they won only one (‘95, twelve years ago).

I do believe Division 1 NCAA basketball coaches with similar tournament records (six years since a Final Four appearance, eight years since a Final Four victory) have been fired or let go (or at the very least, heavily criticized by the “fans” — kinda like Cox).

(And it is still accurate to say — although virtually meaningless — that the Atlanta Braves won their one World Series title in a strike-shortened year. Asterisk, anyone?)

PS: “It doesn’t mean we can’t win but we will have to outscore them”. Brilliant strategy!!! Rush this to Cox, would you DOB? If only someone woulda thought of that sooner.

By KC

July 1, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

Well, in some ways, I think it would be a good idea… but I’ll be beyond shocked if they do it.

And if Hampton’s ready, we probably do need help in the pen more than we need a 6th starter.

By flange1

July 1, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

OK, I’ll bite, does that mean Frenchy is the next….Brad Komminsk?

By keylargo

July 1, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

Flange1

I was thinking the exact thought but then remembered how Hudson can pitch lights out a couple of times then just not have anything the next start.

Hudson is a very fit, low body fat athlete who seems to go as hard as he can for as long as he can, then hits the proverbial wall. It’s over then.

With the six man rotation we could limit the innings pitched for the young guys and still get in the side work. It seems to me the biggest drawback to a six man rotation is finding six starters. Well, we have them. I think it is worthy of a try or at least some debate on the blog.

By DAP

July 1, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this

murphy who do you think should be the pirates all star rep?

the best story in baseball right now is the rays. they are a solid solid team, seemingly out of nowhere. its awesome.

kelly johnson is one of the best young players in baseball. hes gonna be real solid for a long time. i wouldnt be opposed to moving his position, though, if he was up for it. what do you guys think of signing orlando hudson this offseason and letting kelly play 1st?

By flange1

July 1, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

KC,

I agree, 6 man rotation would be logical and might benefit the arms but it won’t happen.

I think what will happen is Campy will move to the pen and be used as the long guy.

If Chuckie ever is “ready”, let him be the other long guy,

Have Acosta go back to Richmond to work on command.

Have the following 5 as 1 inning guys Gonzo, Ohman, Boyer, Bennett and STOCKMAN!

By DAP

July 1, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

by the way, its not really a stretch to think that kelly could be as good as utley in the future. he is a very good hitter and is three years younger than utley. kelly might never be better then he is now, which is really good, but its not crazy to think he might be great in a few years.

By MJM

July 1, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

I used to get all the Braves games up hear in Westwen North Carolina until TBS decided to abandon them. Now I miss all the games that are on PTV because Dish doesn’t carry them. It hurts big time.

It is ironic that Skip Caray on TBS used to belittle ESPN and the major networks for carrying mostly NY and other mega city games, but now that is what TBS does.

By KC

July 1, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

flange1: “If Chuckie ever is “ready”, let him be the other long guy,. Have Acosta go back to Richmond to work on command. Have the following 5 as 1 inning guys Gonzo, Ohman, Boyer, Bennett and STOCKMAN!”

Completely agree on all counts. Though, I think that if Campillo is moved to the pen, he will (rightly) be given a more prominent role than being the long-man.

By Moby Grape

July 1, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

…I suppose Gregor Blanco is the next Ricky Henderson also.*Lee

nope…that would be Josh Anderson ;-)

By BravesFanInRockies

July 1, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this

flange1,

A couple of months ago I thought it would be ridiculous to compare Frenchy (career line .273/.315/.450) with Komminsk (.218/.301/.336).

I still think that’s unfair to Frenchy, though expectations for each of them were sky-high when they reached the majors. Frenchy has been more productive in every season including this one than Komminsk was in any season he was in the majors. Still, we’ll see how this year progresses.

If Frenchy’s numbers don’t improve the rest of this year, his career numbers may wind up in Juan Samuel territory. And that’s not good enough production for a corner OF on a winning team.

By KC

July 1, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this

MJM: If you go with Direct TV, you could get the Extra Innings package. Or, for a less expensive option, if you have good high-speed internet, you can get MLB TV for $15 a month, and watching the games online really isn’t bad.

By Random

July 1, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this

Chopped Off: “Can we re vote and name Turner Field to Hank Aaron Park?”

How soon do you think Liberty Media will sell the naming rights to Turner Field (assuming the terms of the Braves’ sale do not prohibit it)?

How much do you think they’d get? (Citigroup will pay over $400 million for 20 years for rights on new Mets stadium).

Are you for or against the renaming of Turner Field by the highest bidder?

Would you be for it if it meant the Braves could resign Tesh long-term and sign a primo ace starting pitcher?

By Moby Grape

July 1, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

by the way, its not really a stretch to think that kelly could be as good as utley in the future. DAP

maybe not for you, but it is a stretch for me. I like KJ pretty good,and I think he is a Utley like hitter, but I doubt he’ll have 4 years in a row as good as Utley’s last 3.5. we’ll see

By Daybed Wagmoe

July 1, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

TommyP — My earlier post about KJ being a future Utley was in reference to people on this blog (and other places) referring to him as such, not necessarily my own opinion. I did a pretty poor job clarifying that in the post, and looking back I wouldn’t have expected anyone to reach that conclusion…my bad.

By Section 412

July 1, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

Random - IF (big IF) the money was used to increase payroll and maintain / improve competitiveness, this season ticket holder would happily drive in to “INSERT NAME HERE” Field every home game and cheer for a winning team.

It truly would be irrelevant to me, if the money was spent for quality players. It’s just a name.

By Efrim

July 1, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

BravesfaninRockies

Frenchy’s career line isn’t enough production for a corner bat, period. .315 OBP is terrible for a corner outfielder/third baseman/first baseman. Those are your offensive positions that need to be getting on base at more than a 315 clip, more than a 340 clip, really. That said, he is 24 and has plenty of time to get that number up and become a more disciplined hitter overall. It is a shame that people look at the RBI’s and batting average and think that he had become a more complete hitter in 2007. Obviously, he has taken 5 steps back.

By flange1

July 1, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

BravesFaninRockies,

I was trying to be a smart azz on the Frenchy = Komminsk line, I HOPE that this issue with Frenchy is temporary.

I agree that the production that we are getting from RF this year is not acceptable, and “less than league average.”

I believe that Frenchy will come out of this slump at some point and return to productivity.

I think he should be put on the DL. His outfield play has been bad and he can’t seem to run at all any more.

Maybe the legs are causing him some problems again.

By Crista

July 1, 2008 12:06 PM | Link to this

DOB When I looked at the probable pitchers schedule, I noticed that Huddy’s rotation spot is listed as To Be Announced. Any clue what that is about?

By Robert S

July 1, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

DOB

Another thing about Kaaihue - he’s been stuck at AA Mississippi for the last couple of years, and doesn’t appear to be anything other than a career minor leaguer at this point, as the numbers you provided suggest.

BravesFanInRockies

Now that you mentioned it, I just realized that both Francoeur and Brad Komminsk shared similar swings, although it must be said Komminsk looked like he was swinging a golf club rather than a baseball bat.

Yes, obviously to compare the two is harsh to Frenchy, but their OBP’s are similar, and Frenchy actually showed the promise in his first two full seasons that Komminsk never did.

I think (like many others on the forum) he needs to go to Richmond for a couple of weeks and get his head clear. The odds of that happening are slim, but…….

By NO MORE BOBBY

July 1, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

Run-DMC’s “Hard Times”!!!!!!! That just made my day and caught me by surprise. O’Brien keepin it old school and making me wanna find an 80s boombox to take to the game Thursday!!!

I will take the Braves playing like 1982.

By Scott from Fairburn

July 1, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

I like this idea of a 6 man rotation - if you have the talent, why not? Isn’t that essentially what John Smoltz was campaigning for in the off season? Hudson, Reyes, Campillo, Jurrjens, and Morton, plus Hampton (I know, big assumption) … all those guys would benefit from an extra days rest … and use the Buddster and Bennett for long relief when one of your 6 blows up early in the game

By KC

July 1, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this

Random: I really like having a fixed, non-commercial name for the ballpark, and I would hate to see them sell the naming rights from that perspective. Sometimes you have situations where a corporation buys the naming rights, and then gets bought out by another company, which absorbs or changes the name of the company with the naming rights.

I mean, how many names has the Giant’s ballpark had already? 4, isn’t it? Ridiculous.

But on the other hand… if the 9 figures they would get from selling the name would help them compete with the resources of the Mets and their new ballpark… so be it.

By Efrim

July 1, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

Cole Rohrbough placed on the 7 day disabled list. Makes sense, he hadn’t pitched in almost 3 weeks.

By KC

July 1, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

DOB: I’ve asked this once or twice before, and I’m not trying to be a pest, but…

Is Phil Stockman OK? According to minorleaguebaseball.com, he hasn’t pitched since being sent down.

By Casey

July 1, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

Dave, Teix doesn’t need to be traded because we need an arm over his bat. He needs to be traded because there is no way we sign him after the season. We could trade him now for 1-2 blue chip guys and set up the franchise to have a very good young team for the next 4-5 years.

But I’m sure we’ll do the same stupid thing we did with Andruw………hold on to him in hopes of making the playoffs, then watch him walk and get NOTHING in return.

I’ll tell you what, if we hang on to Teix and don’t make it to the WS, not trading him is going to haunt this franchise for a few years to come.

Also, this team has pitched great so far, but I’d be shocked to see it continue. We’ve used the same arms out of the bullpen time and time again. They will fade or get injured in the second half at this rate. And the young pitchers will more than likely tire in the second half (as young pitchers so often do).

By TexasBrave

July 1, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this

KC, flange 1, keylargo as tempting as a 6 man rotation is it would only give the starters a little breather. I have mentioned before going with 5 regular starters and one spot starter. The spot starter would take the place of a regular starter on a rotating basis allowing a longer rest for every starter. We all have seen the benefits of missing a start with Jair. He missed a start after falling down the steps at Wrigley and has been lights out ever since.

Put Hampton in the starting rotation and let Morton be the spot starter. This will also cut down on the number of innings pitched for the rookies who are not used to throwing as many as they are going to by the seasons end.

Now with that being said we all know that neither the 6 man nor the spot starter idea will fly with Bobby. What’s more likely to happen is Morton will be sent back down. KC even though he would be effective in the bullpen, you want him to be getting continued starts on a regular basis.

By KC

July 1, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

TexasBrave: I want Morton getting regular work, but more than that, I want to see this team win the division. If morton’s ready (and he certainly appears to be), let him help however he can.

He’ll have plenty of time to re-acclimate to starting next spring.

By DAP

July 1, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

a 6 man rotation makes you short in the bullpen, or short on the bench. it causes other problems that arent easily adressed, especially when so many position players are injured already. if it were me, i would do the 6 man rotation once infante, prado, chipper diaz, kotsay….some of the regulars heal up and can keep the bench strong despite being short a guy. then id keep 13 pitchers, 6 starters, 7 relievers. (you dont want to have a smaller bullpen, they are overworked as it is.)

By etownbrave

July 1, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this

Lee in S GA, MJM

I live in Elberton, GA and also have DISH. They have continued to ignore emails and nearly impossible to speak to a human on the phone. So on days when PTV has the games I can catch the Augusta,93.1 or Elberton,105.1 radio stations. Sometimes can even catch 94.9 The Bull. Don’t mind listening to Skip and Pete or even Mark Lemke, like in the old days. My grandma loved the Braves so much that she kept a radio by her pillow to listen to them until the day she died. My aunt still has that radio. I will follow her lead and keep my radio close as long as PTV is unavailable to most of Georgia!

By Tomas

July 1, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this

DOB, I was just watching the interleague scores, and the american league once again dominated the national league. Every nacional league team except for the reds and the braves had a losing record, why do you think the american league has had so much success this last few years. Is there pitching better, or the dh is just a tremendous advantage. Look I got to tell you the truth I think that in the national league there are better players.

By Jeff321

July 1, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this

I’d rather have Campillo baffling hitters for 6-7 innings.. Besides, the only spot in the bullpen worthy of him would be as a right handed closer.

So, like I said before, it makes NO SENSE to bring Hampton or Glavine back into the rotation unless one of the younger guys loses their way. Btw, I wouldn’t really classify Campillo as young.. he’ll be 30 on August 10.

By Braves20

July 1, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

My Sporting News finally arrived via Pony Express or however they send it these days. Interesting piece on Tex and the thesis that the days are over when clubs do what they Braves did last year - mortgage the future for a rental.

Interesting thesis - and one that will be proven wrong as soon as Cleveland decides to market their prized lefty. There will be a feeding frenzy among the Yanks, Phils and others.

As for Tex, we will pretty much know where we stand by month’s end with two series with the Phils and another with the Cards plus a west coast swing.

If we’re out of it, we would be foolish not to at least explore what Tex will bring. We’ve finished third with him, probably can do the same without him.

By KC

July 1, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

etownbrave: MLB TV (watching games online) could be the solution for the games you’re not seeing on PTV. But even that is subject to blackout, so you’ll have to check into that.

By bmartilo

July 1, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

I was in both Calgary and Edmonton a few of weeks ago, and both cities had Peachtree TV on Rogers cable. I thought the same thing - it must be a mistake, but clearly it’s true across Canada. I am surprised that is kosher with MLB, given that it’s for all intents and purposes a local station showing out-of-market major league games. And lucky me…I got to see the famous ‘Kelly Johnson dropped pop-up game’ - d’oh!

By N8

July 1, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

NO MORE BOBBY

“I will take the Braves playing like 1982.”

Are you sure what you are asking for?

After starting the 1982 season 13-0, the Braves proceeded to 76-73 the rest of the way (barely hanging on - and needing a HR by the “blog-hated” Joe Morgan against the Dodgers), to win the NL West.

Then proceeded to get swept by the Cardinals.

I would prefer it if the Braves played like 1995. LOL!

By TexasBrave

July 1, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

KC I have no argument with you there and believe me I want the Braves to win the division and more.

DAP good point, to go with any kind of extra starter we need to have all hands on deck. The idea especially works better since we have a number of bench personal that can play more than one position. Thus allowing us to go with one less position player.

Even Corky can play End, Guard and Tackle. Sit on the End of the bench, Guard the water and Tackle anyone that tries to get any.

By jim

July 1, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

For all those people wanting to trade for and/or sign long term a big-name pitcher, how many times has that worked out?

Greg Maddux comes to mind for one, but how many others? Barry Zito anyone? Pedro Martinez is costing the Mets about 2 million a win so far, and Hampton was a big acquisition for the Braves 5 years ago.

How many pitchers have had more than 6 peak years in the past 60 years or so? Warren Spahn, Maddux, Clemens, (with a little help from his friends?), Nolan Ryan, Carlton, … the rest of the list is rather short.

Robin Roberts was great from 1950 - 1955, but went downhill pretty fast after that. Koufax only had 5 great years, and Marichal had about 7. Smallish power pitchers like Guidry and Gullet burn out particularly fast. Where would we be if we listened to all the bloggers that wanted to trade for Dontrelle Willis a year or two ago? Or what about those who wanted to sign Carlos Silva as a free agent last winter? Are these the same people crying for Sabathia, or Oswalt now?

Santana and Oswalt are two small power pitchers whose best years could be behind them. Did the Mets bargain for 7-7 when they signed Santana? I do not want to see the Braves trade major prospects for Oswalt or sign someone like Sabathia to a longer than three year free agent contract (and three years won’t get it done!). We should look for some pieces to shore up the bullpen, but I would prefer to go with the pitching that is already in our system.

By THB

July 1, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

We’ve got to set the tone for this series tonight. If we can get to Kendrick for 4+ runs, I’ll say we win the game as long as Morton has a decent start. But the key for us will be getting to Kendrick, who I believe has faired pretty well against us in his career so far.

DOB-Is Escobar ready to play?

By KC

July 1, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this

Jeff321: I think it DOES make sense to bring Hampton back for 2 reasons:

1 - Hampton is a seasoned veteran who, when healthy, is a proven top-of -rotation starter. And with a great spring, I think he proved the stuff is still there. If we could crank him up right after the all-star break, he would be reaching mid-season form in September, and if all goes well… October. That could be huge in those big games.

2 - We need help in the middle-relief department. Campillo could certainly help a lot, and I’m pretty sure Morton is also capable of doing so.

By lewie

July 1, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

DOB - great call on casion queen…we’ve got wilco here in charleston on a makeup date next month. always a great show.

what’s the chance that the bravos and the pirates play lets make a deal again? we def need a righty bat in the lineup and the pirates have yet to show any real interest in winning, so you gotta figure that they’d at least answer the phone.

also, is campy for real or what? i swore that he’d start getting hit hard after the league had a couple of looks at him, but i was wrong as wrong can be…

By Lee in S GA

July 1, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

Maybe I’m being a little skeptical on Hampton but until I see him actually see him pitch a few innings at the major league level, I am not counting on his presence as a regular starter. At least not for half a season. If he does it is a bonus, if he doesn’t what else is new. The Braves could certainly use his bat off of the bench though, especially with some of these hitters.

By Random

July 1, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

**This article is from the end of April, but I don’t recall it being discussed here. (My apologies if it was and I missed it.)

It’s about Liberty Media’s intentions regarding the Braves’ payroll and their ownership plans. It’s the first time I’ve seen specific payroll numbers from LM, and the first time I’ve seen LM indicate they might not flip the Braves as soon as it would be profitable.

Here’s a little from it: SPENDING SPREE: [Liberty Media Chair John] Malone “knows that maximizing his return ultimately depends on how the Braves do” on the field. Shortly after purchasing the team, the Braves acquired 1B Mark Teixeira, who makes $12M a year, and this offseason the team re-acquired P Tom Glavine, who earns $8M annually. Malone said that he has “set no limit on the payroll.” Malone: “We won’t be cheap. We’d like to win. If [Braves CEO Terry McGuirk] calls up and says they need something, they’ll get it.” Malone has “given his baseball people all the money they need, upping the club payroll from $87[M] to $102[M], the tenth highest in the majors.” Liberty President & CEO Greg Maffei: “I think the management, if anything, is reasonably more empowered now.” [Monte] Burke [of FORBES] notes at first there was “fear Malone might flip the team for a quick profit,” but Malone said that he “can see owning it for decades, even though he’s contractually obliged to hold on only until 2011. ” Malone, citing his longtime involvement with Turner Broadcasting — since ‘86 — and QVC, said, “Most of the assets we’re in we’ve owned for a long time. I like to think the Braves are an appreciating asset”

And this is a pretty good article from FORBES, the primary source for the article cited above.

Again, apologies, DOB, if you’ve already reported on this.

By jim

July 1, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

Using Hampton as a spot starter as described by Texas Brave makes a lot of sense. It is too unconventional an idea for Bobby to try, but it makes sense. As for the extra wear on the bullpen, that is not really an issue. We have 12 pitchers on the roster now, but 2 of them rarely pitch. The spot starter should keep the starter’s arms fresher and allow them to pitch deeper into the games. Given the current usage of the pen, there is probably no need to keep someone like Bennett or Buddy as long relief. The one could do the job as needed, which hasn’t been very often.

By DAP

July 1, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

for kendrick tonight…same game plan for the braves as last time, they just need to make him pay for the walks. kendrick doesnt strike out a ton of guys, so the braves need to be patient with him, work the count, and make him throw alot of pitches.

By Bryan

July 1, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

Casey,

It’s not the same as with Andruw because he was a type B free agent. Tex will be Type A which means at a minimum we will get two draft picks when he leaves. Teams will not offer more than 1 or 2 players for Tex and the braves would rather take the draft picks than muck the season. calm down - tex will NOT be traded this season

By TexasBrave

July 1, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

Jeff321 get ready because if and when either Hampton and/or Glavine are ready to come back to the rotation it is theirs to have. There are just so many days that once players start a rehab assignment that they can stay on the DL. I don’t know how many days that is, perhaps someone can look it up, but I remember Pedro running into the same problem last year.

I do think that they should use up all that time until they are totally ready to rejoin the team. Especially while our current starters are doing such a good job.

By brent a.

July 1, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

Braves20

I realize that it was not your theory, but rather that of a Sporting News writer that you were reporting; nonetheless, I would argue that the Braves did not mortgage the future in the Teixeira deal.

Yes, we did give up a lot for Teixeira (and Mahay); however, for the most part, we dealt from positions of strength for our organization (catcher, SS, and minor-league Starting pitching).

Additionally, the Braves knew they had a large salary slot coming open at season’s end (Andruw Jones), and decided that the Best way to fill it was by acquiring Teixeira early, allowing them to go into the ‘07 off-season with that decision already made.

Additionally, they realized that even if Teixeira walked at the end of ‘08, that huge salary slot would re-open, allowig the team to take those dollars out on the free agent market, or to make an off-season trade.

Also, don’t discount the fact that the team knew that it had Edgar Renteria as a tradeable asset, and do doubt already had JJJ on its radar.

These moves do not occur in a vacuum. As much as people want to, you really shouldn’t judge a single trade without considering it in its greater context.

Instead, you need to look at a front office’s collective body of work, and see how one move led to another.

That being said, there are some good trades, and some bad ones; however, in the case of Teixeira, I do not believe that that move alone constituted the Braves mortgaging the future, especially in light of some of the other moves made in the following months, most notably the Renteria trade.

By buzzdeadwax

July 1, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

“…and of course socialized health care that is proven to be a failure. I guess we should be thankful we aren’t there if we get very sick.” Bob

I thought this blog is supposed to be apolitical. Have you ever been to Canada and had to use their healthcare system? From what I’ve heard, in countries with universal healthcare, EVERYONE has access to basic healthcare. We don’t have that in America. Why is it that one system (Canada) is considered a failure when everyone has access to their basic healthcare necessities, and another system is considered a success (America) when 15% of the population has NO access to basic healthcare?

Please don’t respond to my post – I don’t want to be too responsible for starting a non-baseball/music/food thread. I just wanted to give the counterpoint to the “Basic Healthcare for Everyone is Bad” argument.

By Lew

July 1, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

Supes-It’s pretty obvious that despite what DOB, myself and several others have told you, you’re still convinced that Francoeur should be sent to the lower circles of Dante’s Inferno to fry eternally, wallow with the Prideful or just plain rot away (at least until he can hit for power again). Whatever Dude, I refuse to try to convince you otherwise any longer. Your brick wall is built too high for me to attempt a knock down (even we Big Bad Wolves have our limitations, if the Brothers Grimm are to be believed).

However, be that as it may, I’m curious (but not Yellow- obscure 60’s movie reference)-Who is the offensive juggernaut you would use to replace him? I’d really like to know because I sure as hell can’t think of a better alternative (and if you tell me Josh Anderson, I’ll reply tomorrow after I finish laughing uproariously). So play GM and let us know-who would you play in his stead?

By brent a.

July 1, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

Random

Thanks for posting that blurb.

I think I had read a while back that LM was interested in seeing the Braves increase revenue, perhaps moreso than simply increasing the bottom line. Along with that approach, the theory was/is that the best way to increase revenue, is by putting the best possible product on the field.

By KC

July 1, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

Random: Thanks for passing that along. That is excellent.

Contrary to popular belief, the best type of owner isn’t necessarily the rich passionate individual baseball fan. When you have this type of ownership, there’s always a risk of winding up with a Peter Angelos type of owner that is hands-on to the team’s detriment.

The BEST type of owner is one that will write checks and get the hell out of the way. They’re willing to spend whatever is necessary within reason, but they don’t interfere with the ability of team management to do its job.

That’s what we had with Ted Turner (for the most part)… and it appears, that’s what we have now.

Maybe this Forbes article will finally shut up some of the less informed among us who still say things like “this corporate ownership is killing the Braves”.

I think we are very, very fortunate with our ownership situation right now.

By Steve

July 1, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB,

I read you blogs on a daily basis and think you have a great insight on the Braves and baseball in general!!!…I look forward to seeing new posts…anyway I’m a huge Braves fan from Nova Scotia, Canada…Thanks in large part to ofcourse TBS and my father who was also a big Braves fan (he passed away almost two years ago of cancer) the Braves were our bond! Anyway we also get PTV here thank god so I can see some Braves games!!!…I don’t know what I would do if I couldn’t at least see 40-50 games…but Braves on TBS is more they live on in Canada through PTV…continuing to make them a nationally recognized baseball team that many people love here across the border!…Thanks so much for your time and let hope for a turn-around starting against the Phillies tonight…

Go Braves!!!

By McFann©

July 1, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

Random—

Things are goin’ fine now that the weekend’s over.

Great job on the voting, but I got you beat, heh heh! I’ve done it 125+ times! That’s funny about the write-in. They might count it—but if McCann comes in the game as an outfielder, I’ll be talking to you! LOL…

Murphy—

Keep up the good work! Yeah, I didn’t think Nady was the right guy. Thanks for the correction!

YOU DECIDE 2008!!

VOTE FOR MCCANN!!

(Soto hit 2B number 22 last night! He is now one behind the leading catcher…)

By Steve

July 1, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB,

I read you blogs on a daily basis and think you have a great insight on the Braves and baseball in general!!!…I look forward to seeing new posts…anyway I’m a huge Braves fan from Nova Scotia, Canada…Thanks in large part to ofcourse TBS and my father who was also a big Braves fan (he passed away almost two years ago of cancer) the Braves were our bond! Anyway we also get PTV here thank god so I can see some Braves games!!!…I don’t know what I would do if I couldn’t at least see 40-50 games…but Braves on TBS is more they live on in Canada through PTV…continuing to make them a nationally recognized baseball team that many people love here across the border!…Thanks so much for your time and let hope for a turn-around starting against the Phillies tonight…

By Cecil34

July 1, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

Those of you mentioning Jeff and Brad Komminsk in the same sentence, beware!

It is severely frowned upon by certain individuals….

By TexasBrave

July 1, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

Have you noticed lately how the starters have been going deeper into games? That has to help the bullpen. However, there again lies another problem, starter fatigue especially with our three young guns and I believe we are seeing it a little with Huddy also. They are going to need a break so we need to go to something as crazy as a spot starter or even a 6 man rotation.

By westy12

July 1, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand all the Hampton talk. None of the young pitchers should be removed from the rotation, unless something changes to create a need that does not exist now.

If Hampton matched the quality-start percentage of Campillo, his comeback would be considered an unprecedented success. So what’s the point? Why gamble that he’ll defy the odds and give you what you’re already getting from a young pitcher with a future in the organization? Doesn’t make sense, not when he’s gone after this year anyway. If anything, you send an Acosta down, and see if Hampton can give you a good inning or two on occasion.

Seriously, it’s time to write-off the horrific Hampton Era and stop having any expectations about what he’s going to give the Braves this year. Thinking he might be able to go 2 innings in a 10-run blowout is about as high as the bar should be set at this point. Or maybe just making it from the bullpen to the mound without blowing out a knee should be considered a success.

By Casey

July 1, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

Bryan

If you look at the upcoming draft, it is the weakest one in years.

And I guarantee a Red Sox/Yankees/Angels type of team would give up a good package for him when we are closer to the deadline and the races start to heat up.

Don’t get me wrong, I don’t want to see Teix go. And it’d be great if we could re-sign him. But I just don’t think that’s gonna happen and I truly think we could set ourselves up for the future by trading Teix before the deadline. We have a great group of youngsters right now (in the bigs and the minors) and I’d love to see us add 1-2 promising names to them.

By Lew

July 1, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

Cecil34-Not frowned upon, just looked upon as a ridiculous comparison-because there IS NO comparison.

By BravesFanInRockies

July 1, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

Random,

Seconding the thanks from others. I recall a Wall Street Journal front-page story from the mid-90s talking about Ted and the Braves. Those of us who remember the early days of Ted recall that he was constantly meddling with the day-to-day operations and spending lots of money on some really bad players.

Then Ted got the idea of buying CBS and focused his energies on that. He put Stan Kasten in charge of the Braves. Wrote checks, basically, and left the day-to-day stuff alone. That’s about the time Bobby became the GM and later on Schuerholz was hired.

Ted became a cheerleader and the team thrived.

In other words, having a hands-on owner is no guarantee of success.

By jim

July 1, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

We got nothing for Andruw because he was a type B free agent (as was Mahay, which netted us a # 40 Sandwich round pick — DeVall) AND because we did not offer arbitration. If we had, Andruw would have accepted and we would have to keep him and pay him.

With Tex, he will be a type A free agent, and we will offer arbitration. If he takes it fine! If he doesn’t and leaves to go to a team in the top 1/2 of the combined standings, we get a first round pick and a sandwich round pick. If he goes to the Yankees as things stand right now, we would get a pick # 25 and and a sandwich pick somewhere between 31-45. With Boras as his agent, there is not likely to be a trade and sign type of deal that precludes a bidding war. The players the Braves will get in return for a short-term rental will likely be less attractive than the players they could get with the draft picks.

By westy12

July 1, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

President Bush said it best about Mike Hampton…

Fool me once, shame on…uh, shame on…you?

Fool me twice…shame…I mean, uh, if you fool me, you can’t get fooled again!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eKgPY1adc0A&feature=related

By BossLady

July 1, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

Did you guys say you are voting over 25 times? If so, then how?

By Shaun

July 1, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this

shaun doc is saying the the middle relievers make the WHOLE group look good, when really, the starters arent good, but the relief is. the braves situation is reversed, good starter, relievers not as good.

To go back to this comment from yesterday, the Phillies starters have actually been pretty good (well, maybe not in the last week to week and a half). Brett Myers is the only starter that has been significantly below average. And the relievers have been very good but the starters have been pretty good, too.

The Braves pitching staff has actually been very similar. The Braves bullpen overall has pitched better than a lot of people realize.

It’s not simply that the Phillies are a good staff only or primarily because of their relievers or the Braves a a good staff only or primarily because of their starters. These staffs are pretty deep.

By Random

July 1, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this

jim: “For all those people wanting to trade for and/or sign long term a big-name pitcher, how many times has that worked out? … I would prefer to go with the pitching that is already in our system.”

I think you’re right. (But look at Lohse, as a counter to your examples.)

*Braves20: *”If we’re out of it, we would be foolish not to at least explore what Tex will bring. We’ve finished third with him, probably can do the same without him.”

I second that emotion. (Except that I don’t think we’ll be out of it — after we sweep the Phillies this series, the sky’s the limit.)

Jeff321: “the only spot in the bullpen worthy of him [Campillo] would be as a right handed closer.”

Worthy of him?!? He ain’t Bob Wickman, you know. Check the egos at the door — the only criterion should be where he’d be of most value to the team.

By McFann©

July 1, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

BossLady—

Just change your e-mail address a little bit…or use fake ones.

By Jeff321

July 1, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

Worthy of him?!? He ain’t Bob Wickman, you know. Check the egos at the door — the only criterion should be where he’d be of most value to the team.

Agreed. But, Campillo is more valuable pitching 6-7 quality innings versus 1-2 in the bullpen. Ya know why? Because we all know Cox wouldn’t actually use him effectively. I mean, just look at the Boyer, Acosta, Bennett, Stockman situation. That would be Stockman in Richmond while the other three are still stinking up the joint.

By Renee Langley

July 1, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

Comcast Cable shows Peachtree on CSS, which Channel 37 on basic cable. Check this website and you can see if it is carried in your area. The web site is www.bravesoncomcast.com. Charter Cable also has it, but I don’t know nothing about what station

By bravos2249

July 1, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

Random

with Liberty Media saying this it begs the question as to why the Braves didn’t go after a top notch CF (even though we have minor leaguers the thought is to win NOW) and sign him to a contract but it might also hint at the Braves persuing to sign Tex because LM would give the team money but before the season started they expected Smoltz (16 mill I think) to for sure pitch next season and no telling how much Chipper would get from his guarenteed 8-11 mill+ and that could’ve put the payroll over 150 and then for sure they wouldn’t sign Tex. But now with the payroll at 120 and all the young guys there’s no way the team can’t sign him, it’s a matter of if they will not if they can.

By jim

July 1, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

Bennett seems to be the latest former blog favorite to be tossed on the garbage heap. I think the initial reaction was way too positive and the latest impression way too negative. He is a marginal big-league pitcher, no more, no less!

By MGL

July 1, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

It is easy for John Malone at Liberty to say that he will ok what th front office needs. I’d wager a significant amount that all of the top executives in the Braves front office have significant bonuses riding on the teams financial performance. They are not going to ratchet up the payroll beyond what they think that the revenue will support and still make a profit.

By Tom Calvert

July 1, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this

The last time I switched following teams was when I lived in Atlanta and switched from the old Atlanta Crackers to the Braves. Up ‘til this year I could follow the Braves on TV pretty regularly - but now I’m a Cubbie fan! I can watch them on TV and have no opportunity to see the Braves at all. What did the new management ever have in mind with this TV schedule?

By beekay

July 1, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this

Hard Times by DMC…brings back great memories. DMC and the Beasties in the together forever tour….anyway, watching the game Sunday I couldn’t ever remember having watched a Braves game with that weak of a lineup in the past 20 years. If Corky would have started at catcher it might have been one of the weaker lineups ever.1. Blanco-light hitter should be a 4th outfielder at best 2. Gotay-awful hitter barely a step up from Woodward 3. KJ-solid hitter 4-Tex solid hitter 5. BMAC-solid hitter6. Norton-batting .200 7. Frenchy-AWFUL hitter8.Jones-not ready for majors, they know how to pitch him now, should be in Richmond 9. Lilbridge-way overmatched, should be in AA ball….3 good hitters 1 ok hitter and 5 awful, awful,awful,awful, awful ,hitters….poor JOJO pitched his heart out and had no chace to win. Those guys seem like they are hitting with wet rolled up newspapers out there

By Random

July 1, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

DAP: “if it were me, i would do the 6 man rotation once infante, prado, chipper diaz, kotsay….some of the regulars heal up and can keep the bench strong despite being short a guy. then id keep 13 pitchers, 6 starters, 7 relievers.”

I like the way you’re thinking — let’s name names.

Who would your bench be? You’ve already mentioned Infante (SS, 3B, OF) and Prado (1B, 2B, SS, 3B). A catcher, of course (Miller?). And who’s last? A lefty to platoon with Diaz, and maybe additionally back-up 1B? Blanco or Jones — which? Blanco’s currently the hotter. What would be do with the leftovers — Jones, Gotay, Norton?

What about the additional quality right-handed hitter many think we need? Where would he fit on a four-man bench?

Who would be your six starters? Hudson, Jurrjens, Reyes, Campillo, Morton, Hampton/Glavine? (I’m afraid Glavine might not be back.) Say he is, though — Hampton and Glavine starting, and Campillo to the bullpen? Or Morton sent back down?

Bullpen? Campillo, Gonzalez, Ring, Ohman, Boyer, Bennett, Carlyle//? Send down (or trade for RH bat) **Acosta and Ridgway? If/when Soriano returns, who goes (down or out)?

Lots of pieces to move in and out, back and forth. What do you think? Can a four man bench really be done?

By monty

July 1, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

Random

In response to your 11:05 comment

I think my analogy of comparing Cox to a NCAA basketball coach who took his team to the final 4 every year, or BIg 8, or sweet 16, or won his division conference every year(take your pick)but did win the Big one once, is much less of a stretch then saying the only reason Bobby Cox has been a great manager is because he had great players.I didn’t say Cox couldn’t be criticized. But to make him out to be an imbosilic moron is chidish and biased.You can certainly criticize him for not winning as many World Series rings as maybe his teams should of, but to make him out to be a loser of sorts is pure slander.Give me an example of any team in any sport whose coach has 14 successive pennants.Little leageue, high school college or whatever, I don’t think you can, but if you did I assure you the coach of that team wouldn’t be portrayed as a moron.

By dpelfrey

July 1, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this

Regarding PeachtreeTV, I live in Rock Hill, SC and I basically harrassed anyone and everyone that I could find at Comporium Cable until they finally told me they were working out a deal to pick up game telecasts as an extra in their digital package. I’d suggest barraging your local cable provider with calls and emails until they do something about it. You pay for the service, you should have a say in what they broadcast.

By DAP

July 1, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

random

i think the four man bench can be done, but not in a way that we have plenty of players everywhere. as you mentioned, we would have to send some guys down, and release some, which would suck, but if we want to strengthen the pitching, weve got to.

also, in this senerio, you assume all your starting position players are reasonably healthy, limiting the need for bench guys a little bit.

also, since were being idealistic, im gonna assume diaz is performing the way we thought he would, meaninging we dont need a righty bat for left field.

my rotation would be hudson, campillo, jurjens, reyes, morton, glavine. sub hampton for glavine if glav doesnt come back, and if hampton and glavine both end up pitching, sub hampton for morton. thats the rotation…i would still pitch hudson on regular rest every time, meaning one guy will get skipped everytime through. the cool thing about this is you will have some situations where a few guys are ready to go on the same day, and you can throw the guy who matches up better against the team.

for instance, you pitch the 1-5 guys and skip #6…after hudson throws on regular rest, youve got #2 and #3 to choose from. (not a hard and fast 6 man, i know, but its how i would do it. i dont see any point in limiting hudsons innings, because hes a veteran horse and can handle it)

my bullpen would be gonzalez, ohman, boyer, stockman, bennett, ring, carlyle. id give acosta a rest for awhile.

the bench then would be basically what you said, prado for the infield, infante for super utility, blanco/diaz platoon thingy, and corky (or any backup catcher).

b.jones can be sent down, and norton and gotay will have to say bye bye. no biggie with gotay, but norton is an alright player, and id almost be willing to go short a relief pitcher to keep him.

if i was the manager though, and i did this, i would have to be willing to pinch hit and pinch run with my pitchers. honestly, our pitchers arent that much worse at hitting than gotay or norton.

By Random

July 1, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

jeff321 — no argument from me. Touche.

bravos2249: “with Liberty Media saying this it begs the question as to why the Braves didn’t go after a top notch CF (even though we have minor leaguers the thought is to win NOW) and sign him to a contract”

Well, you gotta remember that the received wisdom at the time was that we already had “a top notch CF” (Jordan Schafer) just a year or two away, and only needed to bring in a short-term, competent (vice “top-notch”) “bridge CF” (Kotsay) until Schafer was ready.

“might also hint at the Braves persuing to sign Tex because LM would give the team money”

Now, that’s a nice thought, isn’t it? That the Braves all along, since even before they traded for him, were planning and budgeting to either re-sign Tesh or get him as a Free Agent. It could still happen, I think. I hope. (Or if he no longer suits our fancy by that time, somebody even better!!!)

monty: “I think my analogy of comparing Cox to a NCAA basketball coach who took his team to the final 4 every year, or BIg 8, or sweet 16, or won his division conference every year(take your pick)but did win the Big one once, is much less of a stretch then saying the only reason Bobby Cox has been a great manager is because he had great players.”

“take your pick”?!? Sloppy, sloppy thinking from you — there are vast magnitudes of difference between an NCAA conference championship, the Sweet 16, the Elite 8 and the Final 4.

“I didn’t say Cox couldn’t be criticized. But to make him out to be an imbosilic moron is chidish and biased.You can certainly criticize him for not winning as many World Series rings as maybe his teams should of, but to make him out to be a loser of sorts is pure slander.”

This diatribe is totally misdirected — I’ve never made Cox out to be either a moron or a loser (not that I can recall).

“Give me an example of any team in any sport whose coach has 14 successive pennants.”

The Braves have won only FIVE pennants in the past sixteen years, and only ever two in succession (twice — ‘91 & ‘92, ‘95 & ‘96). The last pennant they won was in ‘99 — over eight years ago.

A division championship is not a pennant. H3ll, 7 out of the past 8 years, the Braves did not get so far as to even play for the pennant — they lost in the Division Series (or missed the playoffs entirely).

You’re just full of sloppy thinking tonight, aren’t you? C’mon, shape up!!!

By Random

July 1, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

DAP — Sweet.

I printed out your comment — something to think about on my 2-hour commute.

(Hampton could be a great PH, but then you’d need another pitcher to run for him. Even with six, we might run out of starters to PH/PR.)

;-)

By Doc Holliday

July 1, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this

Shaun

If someone would ask me, I would say that you have already checked on phillies starters stats. So if this is true, I dont understand why do you say something like that.

Facts:

1. Phillies only have 1 starter with an ERA bellow 4.00. And they have 1 with ERA above 5.00.

2. Braves have 2 starters with ERA below 3.00 and before Tims last outing, there were 3.

3. JoJos ERA in his last 7 outings is 3.22 (may 28th) so you could day that since may 28th we have 4 starters with ERA below 4.00————— well below.

Im not sure how could you compare our staff with theirs…… Their have only won more games because they have score tons of runs more than us and have not lots the close games as frequently as we.