AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2008 > July > 14 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USBye-bye San Diego, hello Bronx
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
San Diego … to New York — It’s never easy taking that cab ride to the San Diego airport on Sunday night, the sun setting, the cool breeze blowing, the pretty ladies walking along the sidewalks, the outdoor cafes bustling, the sailboats on the harbor.
But duty calls, and we’re leaving the paradisical city with its tanned denizens, its rich assortment of tattooed locals, straw-fedora’d cruisers, wealthy tourists, hard-working immigrants, and bums — surf or street, they got ‘em all — and did we mention beauties? Of every nationality, they got those, you better believe it.
We’re about to experience some culture shock, of the baseball variety and otherwise, flying from San Diego to New York’s LaGuardia, with an oh-so-convenient stop in Atlanta to change planes (psss, Delta, maybe a direct flight to New York would interest one or two people?).
And we’re going from the Petco Park in the trendy, tony Gaslamp District by the water, to Yankee Stadium in the Bronx. But that’s more than all right, folks. Petco’s a great place to watch a series, but I want my All-Star Game in the House That Ruth Built (or Wrigley, or Fenway, although I should say, the one in San Francisco’s beautiful park last year was a pretty special setting).
But I can put up with the stifling subway ride or two, and a forecast for thunderstorms, to be part of this last All-Star Game at the ballpark that New Yorkers (and plenty of others) call simply The Stadium.
Even a veteran like Chipper Jones doesn’t try to play it cool about playing in this All-Star Game. Hoss is excited, as he said again Sunday after the Braves’ finished off a direly needed series win against the Padres with a 12-3 win that couldn’t have done anything to clear up whether the Braves will be buyers, sellers or perhaps both at the trade deadline. More on that in a moment.
Chipper was in the visitor’s clubhouse, packed and ready to limo it to the airport to board a charter flight along with Brian McCann, McCann’s wife Ashley, and Braves trainer Jeff “Bubba” Porter, who was picked to serve as NL trainer.
Mac’s parents were going to fly up to New York, and Chipper’s folks are flying up from the Double Dime Ranch in Texas, along with his wife. Chipper hasn’t been to the All-Star Game since 2001, hard as that is to believe.
“It’s an experience in and of itself, and to be able to share it with those guys is something I’m really looking forward to,” Chipper said, referring to his parents. “Every All-Star experience is tremendous, but I can’t wait to see the look on my dad’s face when we interact together with some of the greats in the game.
“You interact with all those guys at some point during the course of a season. But my dad doesn’t get that opportunity very often, and I’d love to be able to take him down to the clubhouse, and take him out to Monument Grove, watch the look on his face.”
When I asked if he was bringing his kids, Chipper smiled and said, “No, just grownup weekend.”
Besides, his son Shea is going to get a tour of his namesake stadium in Flushing in the second half of the season when the Braves play the Mets in the other New York stadium that’s also seeing its last season of major league ball.
McCann’s been selected to the All-Star Game all three seasons that he’s been on the opening day roster, the first player in franchise history that can make that claim. But like Jones, he didn’t try to play it cool. He’s pumped about this.
“If there’s a year to make the All-Star team, it’s this year,” said McCann, who had three hits including his 18th homer Sunday. “Yankee Stadium — there’s not a better setting for an All-Star Game. It’s gonna be the last one played at the Stadium. It’s probably going to be one of the best days of my life.”
Did I mention he’s excited?
All the players are going to take part in a parade down Sixth Avenue in Manhattan Tuesday afternoon, and all living Hall of Famers have been invited to participate in that and in a special pregame ceremony. It’s going to be a goosebump-raising scene, I’ll bet. They’re going to show highlights from that on the broadcast before Tuesday’s night’s game, is my understanding.
About this weekend: Well, we said before the trip that the six-game swing through Southern California might determine whether the Braves would trade Mark Teixeira before the deadline and/or try to add a power bat to their lineup if they felt like they were still in the race.
We also said it might not determine anything, if the Braves didn’t lose four or more games or win four or more during the trip. And they ended up splitting six, and going to the break 6-1/2 games back, still in that middle ground of are-they-or-aren’t-they in this thing, at least for another week or so.
As we said last week, there is a way the Braves could be both buyer and seller before the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline, and the rumor out of Boston is exactly the type of scenario we referred to.
If the Braves could get an impact first baseman to step right in for Teixeira and not be much of a dropoff, then they might trade him before the deadline and also try to make a move to strengthen their outfield. In other words, trade Teixeira without waving the white flag on the season.
If they were able to get Kevin Youkilis from Boston in a trade for Teixeira, that’s a deal that would fit that description. Youklis is a solid player and team leader, a good glove man who hits for average, power and draws walks. He’s a gritty guy the Braves who might be just what this Braves team need.
Won’t give you 30-40 homers and 130 RBI like Tex, but Youkilis is on pace for about 25 and 110 this year.
Frankly, I have doubts about whether Boston would trade him. He’s still very affordable, and he’s extremely popular in Sox Nation, which is no small matter of concern.
If I were the Braves, I’d actually do that deal for Youkilis and just about any mid-level prospect you’d name. If it came right down to it, I think I’d do it straight up, since Braves can afford Youkilis, and seem very unlikely to be willing to spend what it’ll take to re-sign Tex.
You’d rather have two draft picks than Youkilis? No way, I say. Give me a known commodity like him any time.
But again, I have my doubts as to whether the Red Sox would trade him for Tex. We’ll see. I should be able to talk to a couple of people tomorrow to get a better idea if there’s anything there.
OK, gotta get on this plane. Wanted to talk more about what this weekend series at San Diego meant. I mean, Padres are bad - remember they lost 10 of 11 at home before beating Braves in series opener Friday.
But Braves still won two of three and showed some serious offense today. That’s one thing Padres have done well, pitch and hold down other lineups. So for the Braves to do what they did today, against a pitcher (Randy Woolf) who’s been very tough at Petco, was a good sign.
We’ll see. Still a lot of ball to play. And I’d guess it’ll be another series or two before the Braves make any major decisions regarding Teixeira - that is, unless the Red Sox would actually pull the trigger and give them Youkilis.
OK, a tune before we depart: Love this song, which was covered memorably by Wilco and Billy Bragg on one of their two terrific Mermaid Avenue CDs of Guthrie covers.
“CALIFORNIA STARS” by Woody Guthrie
I’d like to rest my heavy head tonight
On a bed of California stars
I’d like to lay my weary bones tonight
On a bed of California stars
I’d love to feel your hand touching mine
And tell me why i must keep working on
Yes, I’d give my life to lay my head tonight
On a bed of California stars
I’d like to dream my troubles all away
On a bed of California stars
Jump up from my starbed and make another day
Underneath my California stars
They hang like grapes on vines that shine
And warm the lovers’ glass like friendly wine
So, I’d give this world just to dream a dream with you
On our bed of California stars
Services »
Comments
By DanR
July 14, 2008 1:19 AM | Link to this
Wow, DOB. Thanks for the extra effort with the late night blog.
By Chop SHop
July 14, 2008 1:23 AM | Link to this
Tex for Youkilis? Do it now. Don’t think about it, don’t squabble over prospects… just do it. Yook hits for average, power and is an excitable player- something the Braves lack besides Escobar. Plus Yook comes a lot cheaper than Tex and could be out 1st baseman for several years instead of worrying about big contracts with, ahem, Mr. Teixeira. Do it, Wren.
By Mike S
July 14, 2008 1:26 AM | Link to this
Ditto DanR. Thanks DOB for the bonus late night blog.
I was just checking in to catch up on the blog action from today before going to bed (watched the game today, but didn’t look at the blog) and am amazed to see a post-midnight blog posted. Well done!!
Have a safe flight our CEM!
By Rick
July 14, 2008 1:37 AM | Link to this
DOB If we could get Youkilis , I’d do it in a heartbeat . I listen to a lot of Red Sox games on XM and he is a great hitter in the clutch . But I don’t think they will trade him -they are in first place with him, at less money- what do they need Tex for . Plus the fans love him, partly because they like to make the ” yuuuuuu” sound when he comes to bat .
By A-ville Ranger
July 14, 2008 1:44 AM | Link to this
I’ll re-post from the old board,A quick taking of our position at the break.The Phillies would win 85 games by going .500 the rest of the way.
To tie that the Braves whould have to win at a .600 clip,The Phillies will likely win the season series so we’d likely have to play a game better than .600 to tie the Pills at 85 - 77.
Then there are 2 more teams ahead of us in the east.As for the wild card,there’s 6 teams ahead of us,the leader the Cards would only have to win at .484 to tie our 85 wins,which I’ve pointed out we need to play .600 ball to acheve.
Considering the number of teams we have to out-play by quite a lot it’s going to take a very different team and some teams to play poorly to have a real shot.
By Eric
July 14, 2008 1:48 AM | Link to this
Why not trade Tex and sign Sexson for the league minimum when he officially clears waivers. Then you get the prospects in return and you have a cheap player who could be good if he gets his act together.
By Chop Chop
July 14, 2008 1:48 AM | Link to this
If Gammo says the Sox turned the Braves down in a Youk/Hansen-for-Tex swap, the Sox turned the Braves down. Gammo knows Sox, baby. He’s plugged in to that front office better than anybody.
That would be a steal for the Braves. An absolute steal. Luckily for Sox fans, Theo’s not that dumb.
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2009)
July 14, 2008 2:10 AM | Link to this
The Red Sox would never do that trade. Not in a million years. They are trying to add a bat, trading Youkilis for Teix eira doesn’t accomplish anything in that regard.
By rupert
July 14, 2008 2:21 AM | Link to this
it’s a good idea no doubt, glad to see wren and co. are thinking outside the box, a trade like is the kind of trade that makes fiscal sense, while not killing moral on the team, it could also provide a spark, youk is no tex, but then again tex is no youk, he doesn’t have the heart, he is not gritty, no where near as clutch, honestly i don’t know how much he cares, he is like a robot, he hits (not too clutch), says he wants to win, like boras is running with a joystick somewhere, looks like tex is gone either way probably, maybe another deal similar to this would be good (if this is in fact dead like gammo said)
By gotigers72
July 14, 2008 2:22 AM | Link to this
I think Youkilis for Teixeira would be a good trade for the Braves. But surely the Braves would want more. Either a ML player or some prospects. That would free up some money for some other free agents for next year if they don’t have to doleout 20+ mil for Tex. I don’t think there is more than a 10% chance that the Braves will keep Tex anyway, so Youkilis would be an above average trade to say the least.
As was said earlier, the Nation would probably explode in anger if Youk was traded, at least until Tex hit a few bombs. Because Youk is one of their type guys. Fiery and intense. Something the Braves could use. They have appeared listless in just too many games this year. For the reason that Youk IS a Sox type guy, I doubt that they will let him go. I’ll be interested in what DOB will find out about that trade.
Today’s game is reason to stay on board still. Just when you’re ready to give up on ‘em, the Braves play a game where they rake AND get good pitching and defense. I was one on this board who posted that Lillibridge looked overmatched at this level, but he has been squaring up the last 2 games. Don’t know if TP saw something that he relayed to Lillibridge, or if Lillibridge found something himself, or just decided he was damn tired of looking like a weenie by having the bat knocked out of his hand, but whatever, he has seemed much more aggressive and swinging at better pitches the last couple of days.
What BC said about Campillo, that he was a good find, is an understatement. He is a PITCHER my friends, as opposed to a thrower as some of the younger Braves [Reyes?] appear to be. The Young Guns would do better to emulate Campy rather than trying to be the next Nolan Ryan. I love seeing the reaction from batters when they hit a weak popup, or swing and miss and turn around and look as if saying “Where did that ball go”, as if the ball had disappeared or something. Must be frustrating to Major League hitters.
By J.L.
July 14, 2008 2:38 AM | Link to this
Trade Tex for the best deal.He is a very good 1stbaseman,but not the type to carry a team.Go Braves.
By Hotspur
July 14, 2008 2:54 AM | Link to this
Hey DOB — I was at the Saturday night game at Petco. Looked for you at the Rubio’s stand behind home plate. Oh, well. :-)
Can somebody recount the rumored players in the rumored Red Sox trade? I missed that somehow. I know Tex and Youk — which I too would do straight up; Youkilis is a fiery clubhouse leader who could make a serious difference in the Braves’ locker room, and he’s cheap despite putting up numbers superior to Texeira’s this year — but I missed the other players discussed as possible throw-ins. Who might they be?
Regardless, my $0.02: trading Tex for Youk, combined with picking up a Xavier Nady, say, could actually make this team a MORE viable contender. Not sure why it is — perhaps the rent-a-player cloud hanging over his head this year has had an impact on other players? — but Texeira just hasn’t been the difference-maker we hoped he’d be. Maybe a change would do everyone good.
By Plate Appearance
July 14, 2008 4:59 AM | Link to this
TOO EXPENSIVE
When you consider the possibility of giving one player on a 25 man roster approximately 1/5 to 1/4 of the designated payroll for the year, which would be the case for signing Tex, can the Braves truly afford him? I say not!
Though he’s certainly a very good player, Tex is not the kind of dominate player who can put the Braves over the top. No player is worth that kind of money.
In fact I heard Pete Van Wieren comment on the Braves radio broadcast yesterday that if it were up to him, he would be a seller. I agree.
It’s time to trade Tex. It’s time.
On another note, I never heard an explanation as to why the Braves decided not to keep Bryan Pena as their backup catcher — in light of Corky Miller’s hitting woes. Does anyone know? Can you give some insight here DOB?
DOB, thanks for the good work on your columns! Great writing!
I like the Youk suggestion, but I don’t think it will happen. Youk adds too much valuable chemistry and clutch hitting to Boston — in spite of his recent incident with Manny.
By FloridaBrave
July 14, 2008 6:31 AM | Link to this
I love the trade Teixeira yet still try to win talk. I mentioned that awhile ago and no one bit. I’m also not surprised the Red Sox turned that down. Youkilis for Teixeira is more than fair much less with a talented, future closer involved. I’d definitely do Tex for Youkilis straight up. I’d also do Tex for Loney + a prospect or Kotchman + a prospect and then try to to get Nady. If it doesn’t work out this year at least we’ll be returning the same lineup next year and we’ll pretty much have the same minor league system, albeit a year more experienced. Great plan by Wren, now we’ll just have to see about the execution…
By NCBravesFan
July 14, 2008 7:09 AM | Link to this
DOB thanks for the late night update! I figure that if Tex is going to be dealt, it will end up being a three-way trade of some sort … most likely in two separate deals rather than one.
Tex is most likely going to garner prospects or at best a very young ML player who is expendable at his position. (In fact, if the Braves can get a ML-ready bat for Tex that covers a hole, I suspect they’ll do it immediately. But I doubt it’ll be that simple.)
There’s also a very limited market of 3-4 teams at best that will be in the running for a two month rental, which further limits returns.
Tex for Youkilis is a non-starter because Youkilis is too valuable a commodity - young, affordable and under control contractually for a sustained period. That’s precisely the kind of player the Braves need at this point as they most likely build for 2009 … but it’s also the kind of player everybody else is looking for as well.
DOB I also know that you’ve said that Liberty is planning to increase the payroll going forward - but I’m starting to wonder if the economy might undo that plan … especially if Liberty is a highly leveraged company (I don’t know if they are - just wondering out loud).
In this kind of economy, a highly leveraged company is vulnerable (since credit is so tight).
By hop
July 14, 2008 7:11 AM | Link to this
trade trade trade tex,very few teams make the playoff by being under 500 after the first half.i think the number is only one. braves need some outfield bunch to say the least!
By Tex-Youk
July 14, 2008 7:24 AM | Link to this
To continue, as I butchered my last post on the old blog, I agree 100% with DOB on this one. Test the waters, see whats out there, but at the end of the day if you have to swap Tex straight up for Youk, do it! Big Poppi is the wild card. I think the only way this deal could be done was if Ortiz has a setback in his rehab. Boston thinks they need a bomber in the lineup. If Poppi is going to be back in August or Sept instead of late July, the Sox might just pull the trigger.
I’m also on board with many here. I don’t see how/why Boston would actually do this deal. Youk is everything you want in a player. He makes things happen for the Sox. His numbers won’t equal Tex’s but he is a clutch hitter. He’s always hit in the clutch even when his numbers were lower than they are this year.
Bottom line? If Boston would do this deal straight up, shake hands, get a police escort to Logan airport, and get Youk out of town before the Sox come to their senses!
By TommyP
July 14, 2008 7:35 AM | Link to this
I really have a hard time believing that Boston would trade Youkilis. He’s such a leader in that clubhouse, especially since Varitek appears to be on his way out.
I would not do a straight up deal of Tex for Youk. No way. You HAVE to get something else for Tex.
Let’s face it. Youk is having a nice season so far for Boston. Actually, it’s a career year for him.
But Tex straight up for a guy that last year hit .288 with 16 homers and 83 RBI’s and .279, 13, 72 the year before? C’mon…..you HAVE to get a better package for Tex than that.
If you want to be in the camp that believe that this year isn’t necessarily his career year but evidence that he’s getting better and better….I can go for that.
But I can’t go for a straight-up swap. No way.
I’ve seen Kotchman mentioned as a possibility and Loney from the Dodgers. I’d prefer Loney, no doubt.
But in a package for Tex.
By doc
July 14, 2008 8:05 AM | Link to this
youkillis for tex in a heart beat with this budget straight up, no questions asked. one couldnt dream of a better scenario as the braves are desperate for a first baseman. boston is desperate for a marque player as papi is on down side due to weight and injury and manny is manny.
tex puts up numbers youkillus never can on his best day and youkillis does what the kid did traded to pittsburg does without the add and hitting streaks. unfortunately it still does not make us competitive enough to make it to the top again. we are just good enough to tease right now.
with tex unsigned doubt we can get more for him than a solid player to fill a huge void made when we traded for gonzalez; a trade that as poor in concept and driven by salary budget considerations. not good to trade the guy that can be a solid cornerstone playing every game when the guy you trade for can only play 60 to 70 innings a game and spent the last month of a season on the injured list. i hope the lesson was learned.
By Cecil34
July 14, 2008 8:21 AM | Link to this
Hey blogger boys and girls, don’t anyone go extrapolating that beating the Padres 2 out of 3 as a sign that we are rockin’ and rollin’ and all’s well.
Is it a positive? Yes.
Does it mean we are going to play .600 ball from here on out and get to 85-88 wins?
Probably not.
Before everyone starts popping the bubbly, let’s see how the swing through the Washington, Fla and Phillies series go.
We can also reserve throwing in the towel at this point as well.
So, as to trading….
Probably won’t get Youkilis, but would be all for sending Tex somewhere that would give us a Youk-type player. Hate to see Tex go, but now, it is more about affording Tex than being out of the race.
The next two weeks should be interesting.
Enjoy the All-Star game Mac and Hoss, y’all deserve it.
By CW
July 14, 2008 8:26 AM | Link to this
I’m a seller; this year is done. Trade Tex now.
I’m with you Plate Appearance - Why in the world did Wren let Pena go and keep Corky Miller??? That guy will be lucky to hit a buck fifty this year and Pena could not have been that bad defensively. Besides, he was a good influence on Yunel. Any insight on that on DOB?
Great tune selection today David. California Stars is my favorite from the two Mermaind Ave. records.
By Barringon Garland
July 14, 2008 8:31 AM | Link to this
The Braves have 17 games left against Washington and San Fran. We need to go at least 14-3 in those games if we want any shot. Plenty of opportunity left, we just need to focus on winning every series and we will make the playoffs.
By Barrington Garland
July 14, 2008 8:32 AM | Link to this
The Braves have 17 games left against Washington and San Fran. We need to go at least 14-3 in those games if we want any shot. Plenty of opportunity left, we just need to focus on winning every series and we will make the playoffs.
By Barrington Garland
July 14, 2008 8:32 AM | Link to this
The Braves have 17 games left against Washington and San Fran. We need to go at least 14-3 in those games if we want any shot. Plenty of opportunity left, we just need to focus on winning every series and we will make the playoffs.
By Spazz
July 14, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this
As much as I hate to admit it, trading Tex seems like the thing to do.
I can’t quite put my finger on it, but there is just something wrong with the chemistry of this team that I fear will keep them from making any kind of serious run. Every time these youngsters seem poised to start taking control of things, they just take three steps backwards, as if afraid of success.
Trade Tex now, while we might still actually get something in return that could help turn things around. It can’t hurt. He sure hasn’t taught them how to win. He stays to himself way too much, and there is no way Liberty should fork out the amount of money it would take to keep him. As good of a player as he is, he’s not worth the amount of green it would take, especially with the supporting cast that’s around him.
By Shaun
July 14, 2008 8:45 AM | Link to this
Yeah, I don’t know if I’d do a deal straight up for Youkilis. He’s a very good player but he’s not exactly young and he’s not really an upper-echelon firstbaseman (although he has been close to it this season). I just don’t think he’ll be much better that he’s been the past couple of seasons in the next few years. I don’t think Teixeira is worth him straight up.
That said, I do agree that you’d rather have the proven commodity than draft picks. However, I think the Braves could get at least a couple of young players who have proven themselves as at least very solid major league prospects. And I think that may be close to equal to the value Youkilis alone provides, if Boston doesn’t agree to Youkilis and a solid prospect.
Also, there is this aspect of a Teixeira deal that wouldn’t be “waving the white flag.” In that case, maybe the Youkilis deal is the only conceivable deal out there.
By TommyP
July 14, 2008 9:10 AM | Link to this
Shaun: I agree with your last post.
Even if the Braves want to do a deal that shows the fans they aren’t giving up, you still get more than Youkilis. He’s just not enough for a talent like Tex.
I’m not saying the Braves need to recoup the ransom they sent to Texas but they should be able to get half of that, shouldn’t they?
What I like about Youk is that he would probably bring a lot more emotion to this listless crew of Braves. It seems that youthful exuberance from Frenchy, McCann, Johnson, etc. is a distant memory.
A deal for Youk or Loney would prove the Braves are still going for it but in a different direction. You need more than that to pry away our slugger (I would hope).
A deal with Anaheim is the only other one I can imagine that would remotely show the fans that we still believe we can win it with Kotchman involved but that’s a stretch.
Three games vs. Washington starting on Friday and then followed by 3 game sets at Florida and at Philly. Those 9 division games are ideal because if you don’t know if you’re in it or not after that stretch, you never will. A four game home series vs. the pesky Cards will take us into the trade deadline but those 9 divisional games will show a lot to the Braves brass.
If Tex wants to remain a Brave for at least a few more months, put together a “Tex-like streak” at the plate for a week and a half.
By Shaun
July 14, 2008 9:14 AM | Link to this
Here’s an interesting possibility. Not sure how likely it is. It is pure speculation on my part but I think it makes some since: The Rays trade Carlos Pena and a couple of prospects/young players for Teixeira.
The Rays likely feel this is a rare chance for them to finish ahead of either the Yankees, Red Sox or both and win either the AL East or the AL Wild Card. Maybe they make a bold move to increase their chances.
The Rays’ pitching is fine but their offense is fairly mediocre. Maybe they’d give up Carlos Pena, an established firstbaseman, and a couple of solid prospects for a shot at a switch-hitting firstbaseman that could slug in the .500s.
The Braves would get a solid player who could step in for Tex right away, if they could pry away Carlos Pena. Also the Rays are loaded with young quality arms and quality outfielders. And maybe if the Braves would throw in another piece, like a Gotay or a Norton, the Rays would part with Eric Hinske so that the Braves would have a very good power bat for leftfield, it they want to go that route.
I don’t know, but it seems like Teixeira to the Rays could be a decent fit for both sides. I think the question is how much would the Rays give up for a couple of months of Teixeira when they already have a fairly solid firstbaseman? But when Tex is on, he’s an MVP-type player. And there are a lot of interesting possibilities for the Braves if the Rays were to set their sites on Teixeira. There are lots of options for a deal here.
Scott Boras would probably encourage such a deal. His client could show what he could do in a perhaps one of the toughest pennant races in recent memory. Plus, he would be showcased directly to a few teams that could give him the huge contract he desires.
By Quack Quack
July 14, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this
to fill a huge void made when we traded for gonzalez; a trade that as poor in concept and driven by salary budget considerations. not good to trade the guy that can be a solid cornerstone playing every game when the guy you trade for can only play 60 to 70 innings a game and spent the last month of a season on the injured list. i hope the lesson was learned
I would trade LaRoche for Gonzo/Lillibridge every day of the week and twice on Sunday for the rest of the Braves life in Atlanta. Adam is way worse than Tex at getting going early in the season. Good riddance!
By Drew
July 14, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this
If you’re Theo Epstein there is no way that you make the Youk-Tex trade without requiring the Braves to throw in a pitching prospect. Epstein knows the position the Braves are in if they DON’T trade Tex. If they don’t he becomes a free agent and the Sox sign him without giving up anything.
Either way it’s safe to say that the Braves aren’t in the drivers seat trying to move Tex. He’s at most a rent a player who’s underproduced the first half of the season in a pretty saturated first baseman market. AND there’s no way a team will give up what the Braves gave up to get him.
Trade him to someone for a mid-tier first baseman (Aubrey Huff) and a five star starting pitching prospect.
By Lew
July 14, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this
Youklis has a career OBP of .384 (same this year) a .454 SLG% (.555 this year) and is hitting .319 (last time I looked). His Batting average has risen EVERY season he’s played. He walks, he plays hard and he has a lifetime .998 Fielding %. Like DOB said, he won’t hit for Tex’s power, but I believe him to be much more valuable because of the way he plays. NO brainer (for the Braves-not so sure for the Sox). Go for it. Throw in a relievert (which they need) for a prospect if need be.
By Jeff R
July 14, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this
Please… the Braves lost the series to to the floundering Dodgers, and then won the series from the lowly Padres. What does that tell Wren and Company? The Braves can lose to and beat bottom-feeders?
I realize figuring out what to do the balance of the season versus 2009 isn’t a science but an art. Wren has to weigh a lot of factors (the team’s on field performance being only one), but with all the injuries, with the unsettled outfield, with two starting pitchers (Reyes and Morton) who are learning the ropes, the club has 2009 written all over it.
A little short term pain for longer term gain would make great sense.
Moving Super Tex for Youkilis would be a very good move. Moving him for a top 3rd base prospect and a top pitching prospect (if a deal like that could be made) wouldn’t be a bad move, either. Third basemen who can both hit and field are tougher to find than good first basemen. And, sorry, the Incredible Chipper just ain’t durable. I know the team is on the hook to the Incredible One through the close of 2009, but positioning now to replace him in 2010 makes solid sense.
By McFann ;Ô;
July 14, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this
Thanks for the new blog, Chief! Great stuff! Can’t wait for the game!
BA (last blog) McFann’s responses to various poop throwers are priceless. She never gives in, just shuts them down with facts. Good stuff.
Thanks fro the support! I appreciate it!
By Lew
July 14, 2008 9:43 AM | Link to this
Youklis has a career OBP of .384 (same this year) a .454 SLG% (.555 this year) and is hitting .319 (last time I looked). His Batting average has risen EVERY season he’s played. He walks, he plays hard and he has a lifetime .998 Fielding %. Like DOB said, he won’t hit for Tex’s power, but I believe him to be much more valuable because of the way he plays. NO brainer (for the Braves-not so sure for the Sox). Go for it. Throw in a relievert (which they need) for a prospect if need be.
By Seven Pitches
July 14, 2008 9:45 AM | Link to this
Thanks for the above and beyond early morning blog, DOB. Enjoy The Stadium. I made my first and only trip there just two weeks ago today, taking a daytime tour and soaking up the history. Yankee Stadium is a monument to the history of the game. Sad to think it’s going down.
By Lew
July 14, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this
Drew-He’s not as untradeable as you might think. The Red Sox would definitely think much more strongly about it if the Yankees or Angels were in the trade mix. They would pull the trigger to keep the Yankees from acquiring Tex in a heartbeat.
In addition to that-Manny is in the last year of his contract and David Ortiz is likely not making it back this year and his future is much more iffy than they are saying publicly. They NEED the power Tex would provide. A lot. Without all that vaunted power, they are a shadow of their potential. Tex would kill with that short left field wall in Fenway.
Add to this the fact that the Yankees, Red Sox and Angels could all afford to sign him long term and it’s not as far fetched as some think. In addition, the inclusion of a relief pitcher, which the Sox are in desperate need of, could help swing the deal.
By Paul
July 14, 2008 9:53 AM | Link to this
With runners in scoring position, the Braves only have one everyday player batting over .300, and it’s Chipper at .308. Tex only bats .277 in those situations. Youk leads the Sox at those times, batting .360. Dealing Tex for Youk would be worth it—even if Youk won’t have the same total production, he’ll help make up for the Braves’ lack of clutch hitting.
By BamaBrave
July 14, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this
I endured about 4 innings of the ESPN Sunday Night game (before Joe Morgan and Jon “BeteMEAT” Miller made me want to shoot the flat screen) and caught Peter Gammons’ take on trade possibilities as the deadline looms. In a nutshell, he had serious doubts that a Tex-Youk trade would materialize. For starters, Youk’s OPS is superior to Tex’s, and, as DOB has pointed out, he’s popular. He’s a gritty old-school type of player, and Boston loves that more than clam chowder. I’d trust local boy Gammons when it comes to Red Sox trade buzz…this ain’t gonna happen.
By DAP
July 14, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this
if the braves still want to win this year, trading tex for youk isnt how to do it. you would be trading a historically slow starting player in tex, for a historically slow finishing player in youk. james loney is the #1 guy i would want to get for tex, and were probably more likely to get him then youk, anyways.
By McFann ;Ô;
July 14, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this
Did I say “fro”? I meant “for”.
Sorry.
By Shaun
July 14, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this
Lew, Youkilis is a fine player. But he’s 29 and isn’t likely to be an upper-echelon firstbaseman for very long.
I don’t think it’s a good fit for either side. Youk is a solid, cheap player. Why would the Sox give him up (along with a decent young player or two) for a two-month rental when they really don’t need to? They are already a great team without Tex, with a good firstbaseman.
And why would the Braves trade Tex for a 29-year-old firstbaseman who is very good but has never been upper-echelon. They could get two or three young players that could contribute in the big leagues instead of one that is going to be solid for a few more years and is probably due for a big raise very soon.
Yes, his batting average has gotten better each year but at 29, but he’s not likely to become a much better player than what he’s already shown in the big leagues. Nothing wrong with him at all and nothing wrong with the Braves wanting him. It’s just Tex could bring in some younger players as well and why would the Sox trade Youk and a young player or players?
By DAP
July 14, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this
drew If they don’t he becomes a free agent and the Sox sign him without giving up anything.
except draft picks, which definetly isnt nothing.
Jeff R the Braves lost the series to to the floundering Dodgers, and then won the series from the lowly Padres. What does that tell Wren and Company? The Braves can lose to and beat bottom-feeders?
the dodgers are hot and contending for a division title, dude. they arent bottom feeders.
By DAP
July 14, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this
lew The Red Sox would definitely think much more strongly about it if the Yankees or Angels were in the trade mix.
i think youre right, but i dont think the angels or yankees will be in the mix. the yankees arent gonna trade anything that we want, and the angels have a fairly comfortable lead over a team who has trouble scoring runs and just traded thier best pitcher. i honestly dont think the angels will be making any moves.
i think the dodgers and d-backs might want tex, and the red sox might want him…other than that, i dont think any other teams match us.
By Dadgum
July 14, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this
The Braves are a perplexing bunch. Many, me included, thought they would be 9 back at the break. While they are 6 1/2 it is a weak 6 1/2 with questions to be answered as we know.
I don’t see the Braves trading Tex unless it is in a multiple team trade. Certainly the Red Sox aren’t stupid enough to do a straight up Youkilis/Tex trade. Mess up the chemistry etc. Not at all. A Tex trade must involve a front-line starting pitcher which they won’t get from Boston for sure. Maybe a San Diego/Boston/Atlabta trade wouldl work. San Diego is going nowhere with a lot of good arms. Maybe the Cubs would part with Sean Marshall in a multiple player trade if it strengthens their post season run. We’ll see. Can’t see them standing still and not getting something for Tex in a trade.
Rock on……….
By Anders
July 14, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this
Not sure if you guys know but there’s a fair amount of baseball talk going on up here in NYC this week. You know, with the All Star game and all. Now, had Mr. Wren swallowed his pride and put the word out a week or so ago that Tex could be had then I’m thinking that , oh I don’t know, maybe 50 or so of the hundreds of baseball media types in town for the event would be asking Hank Steinbrenner every day if he was gonna make the big move. You know Hanks ego would get the best of him especially on the huge high the Yankees are on having baseball’s premier event in their town and ballyard this week. He defintely would get involved therefore driving up the price for Tex faster than a barrel of oil.
It’s not too late but it’s getting there. I think Wren is about to make the same mistake the Twins made with Santana. He’s letting the buyers drive the market. That doesn’t make for good profit margins.
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this
Just checked into my Manhattan hotel, nine hours after taking off from San Diego at 10:30 p.m. Pacific time, with a 45-minute stop in Atlanta to change planes.
Oh, I feel refreshed, let me tell you. It’s drizzly and totally socked-in cloud cover here in NYC.
So I’m dragging my sorry but through LaGuardia, in a zombie-like state, and guess what song’s playing in the baggage claim area as I come down the escalator? “It Never Rains In Southern California.”
I kid you not. Couldn’t make that up.
OK, gotta rally, get caffeinated and get some grub before heading over to the All-Star player interviews at the Grand Hyatt, about 10 blocks down Lexington Ave. from my hotel.
By Bill
July 14, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this
We can forget this trade of Tex for Youk. Sox aren’t stupid. He may be traded to BoSox but for prospects. I think it will be to D’Backs or Ray’s. The D’Backs have switched their first baseman to the OF. I thinks the Ray’s might get interesting.
By McFann ;Ô;
July 14, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this
Why can’t people (Jeff R) just be satisfied that the Braves won a series? Why do you have to spew the “They cann only beat the nobodies” stuff?
Now, had they lost the series, you’d be saying. “The Braves can’t even beat the bottom-feeders”, right?
“Would [you] mind smiling? The team did just win…”
C’mon!
By Original Jon
July 14, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this
Shaun, why do you keep pointing out Youk’s age??? He is only 1 year older than Tex is, big deal about his age dude. I would love to have Youk for Tex, heck, even straight up, I would do that trade in a second.
By Reid in EAV
July 14, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this
Aw, the Sawx can’t trade Youk. Who would Manny get in fights with? (Wait, don’t answer that.)
Seriously, sounds like a great idea. I hope Wren makes it happen. The only issue with offloading Tex has been who’ll fill in at 1B (Thorman? Yeah right.) — and this solves that neatly.
By McFann ;Ô;
July 14, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this
DOB—
That figures. (Funny stuff…sorry.)
By Original Jon
July 14, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this
Maybe we could trade Tex to a team that is falling out of contention but needs a player to boost their attendance or something. Who knows, lol. Maybe a team like Tampa Bay would trade us Carlos Pena and a prospect for Tex.
By Anders
July 14, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this
Lew
Your 9:50 post sounds like the argument I made three weeks ago when most on here said I was out of my mind. Glad to see great minds think alike - finally!
Read my previous post. Wren has to create the feeding frenzy - that’s how you get overpaid. Peolpe waited on line overnight for a new phone this weekend. Think that happens if nobody knows the phone is available?
All I read from Atlanta is this blog and DOB hasn’t given his opinion one way or another on what the Braves should do (which is OK as this isn’t a column) but do any of the other writers or radio hosts etc. offer thoughts on what the Braves should do in their minds? Is the thought to sit tight and try for the playoffs or sell off and reload? Usually that’s what drives the conversation of the fan base - at least in NYC and most other major cities. It also puts some public pressure on team management which seems non-existent for the Braves in my short time blogging with you guys.
By Shaun
July 14, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this
Lew and DAP, I don’t think the Red Sox would be looking at Tex too hard, even if the Yankees and Angels were involved. They have a very good firstbaseman and are second in the league in runs scored and are first or second in all the meaningful offensive categories. Plus they’ll probably get Ortiz back at some point fairly soon. The Sox do not need Teixeira.
And if the Yankees or Angels get Teixeira, would he really make their offenses any better than the Red Sox’s offense?
By Lew
July 14, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this
Hey-I agree about the Tex situation with everyone but Shaun. Dude, This “The player is on a severe decline at age 30” routine is not only getting to be a cliche with you, but it is extremely subjective and in many cases out right wrong. Look at Chipper. He sure died when he hit thirty, didn’t he.
Besides-In Youklis’s case, he’s under club control for two years past the current season, which would mean he was all of 31 when his contract is up. Please come up with some logical reasons for not signing him. Age, in this instance in particular, is a non issue.
By NCBravesFan
July 14, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this
Anders, Shaun Not quite sure what the market for a free-agent 1B is at this point. It’s a two-month rental with no other guarantees, which drives the return way down.
Tex for Youkilis would be a steal for the Braves given this reality.
By Shaun
July 14, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this
Original Jon, I keep pointing out Youk’s age because he’s not likely to get much better than he’s been. And why trade Tex for a player one-year older, who has never been upper-echelon and who is likely done getting better when you can trade him for at least two and possibly more who are likely to be decent major leaguers?
That said, I think if the Braves could get Youk and a decent young player or two, they should do it. But why would the Sox do that?
I don’t think it’s a good fit for either team.
By Original Jon
July 14, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this
Well, guess what guys, as far as I can tell, there arent many teams in contention that need Tex in a trade, unless you want to trade him within the division. Lets look at some of the teams in contention, along with their first basemen. Anaheim, they have Kotchman, cheap and under control for a long time, Boston has Youkilis, Tampa Bay has Carlos Pena, White Sox has Konerko, but would we really want him? You get the picture. Only way to trade Tex is to trade him to a team that is on the fence about whether or not they are in the race or not. We are that kind of team, so why not just hang on to him. Unless we could get a leadoff type second baseman and move Kelly over to first. I dont know, just throwing out ideas like everyone else.
By Robert S
July 14, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this
DOB, going from San Diego to the Bronx is like going from paradise to a gas station bathroom. I was there once as a kid, and it wasn’t pretty.
As for Tex and Youk - I keep pushing the “get Youk and a bat for the bench angle.” I think Sean Casey would be great for Atlanta’s bench. and a definite upgrade over what they have now.
Realistically, the proposed trade doesn’t look like it will happen, but perhaps the Braves and Sox can expand the deal, or the Red Sox’ needs might change. Everything really depends on Big Papi’s health. But to have Youk would be fantastic, and a big shot in the arm for the Braves.
That way, they can still go out and get another bat, and not give up the farm to do it.
By Lew
July 14, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this
Shaun-Dude, age would only be an issue in this case if-
2.If we were planning on signing Youklis to a long term contract extension (no one has even suggested as much). The rest of this season and two more would still leave him quite in his prime at age 31.
As for declining skills-Had you actually looked you would have seen his numbers going up almost on an annual basis. His batting average HAS increased yearly in the bigs. I don’t think he’s hit his full potential yet and he’s hardly chopped liver at the moment..
Now I can see why the Red Sox might not do it (can also see why they would), but to say age should be a factor and that it wouldn’t be a good fit for the Braves is way off.. Actually both assertions are flat out wrong.
By McFann ;Ô;
July 14, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this
Happy birthday, Timmy!!
By Original Jon
July 14, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this
Shaun I personally don’t think the Braves are going to be able to trade Tex to any team. I mean, who would want him knowing they would be giving up prospects for a 2 month rental? When the Braves traded for him, they at least knew they were going to have him for a full year in 08. But any team that trades for him now is not going to mortgage the future for a 2 month rental with no guarantee that they will be able to re-sign him. So I say that Tex stays this year and the Mets or Yankees will probably sign him in the offseason.
Oh, I guess there is one team we could trade him to now that might possibly need a better first baseman than what they currently have, and that is the Yankees. But, what do they have that we would even want? More pitching? Our pitching isnt the problem, the hitting is. And now that I just checked out Giambi’s stats, he has more homers than Tex, but about the same batting avg and a few RBI’s. So Tex wouldnt be that much of an upgrade for 2 months.
By Congrats Chipper & Mac
July 14, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this
Thanks for the late night blog, DOB. Glad to hear Chipper is excited. ‘bout time that man got some kudos around here instead of another Frenchy headline.
By Lew
July 14, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this
Youk’s stats so far this season-.319 BA, .384OBP, .555 SLG%, on line for 25 HR and 110 RBI.
Shaun-Who cares if he doesn’t get any better?
By DAP
July 14, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this
shaun i disagree that the red sox wouldnt look at tex. they have a half game lead in the division, and while they have a very good offense, their 2nd best hitter is hurt, and might not play again in 2008. i believe they have been DHing manny and playing crisp in the outfield in his place…i think they would love to replace crisp with tex in the lineup. the sox know they arent out of the woods, with the yankees only 6 back with that monster offense and the rays only half a game back with thier great young team.
the red sox want tex. they wont be stupid about it and make a dumb trade, but they want him. not having ortiz scares them. if we could get the rays to how intrest, or the yankees (even though i dont think they would trade anything we want) the sox would pay attention to that.
By Nick
July 14, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this
The deal does make some sense for the Sox in terms of this season. Youkilis’ numbers fall off considerably in the 2nd half (see stats the last 2 seasons) while Tex is arguibly one of the top 3 or 4 hitters in the game during that same time period. If the goal is to make your team better for the next 2 months (not taking into consideration contract lenghts, next year etc…) then making this deal would theoretically benefit the Sox.
Post All Star breank numbers for Tex last 2 seasons ‘07 18 HR 64 RBI .966 OPS ‘06 24 HR 61 RBI .998 OPS
And Youk ‘07 7 HR 39 RBI .747 OPS ‘06 3 HR 29 RBI .728 OPS
Youk is a solid player, and a popular figure in Boston, but based on past performance the Sox would upgrade considerably with Tex at 1st for the remainder of the season
By why cox
July 14, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this
The Braves and Mets were both the same number of games behind the Phils when the Mets fired their Manager. Now the Mets are only 1/2 game behind the Phils and the Braves have lost more ground since then. It looks like the Mets realized their problem. Any hope that the Braves will admit that they need to do the same thing ?
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this
Anders, you shouldn’t comment on what’s written here or elsewhere in our paper if you’re going to be so grossly incorrect in almost everything you assert.
To say I or others at the AJC, or radio hosts — and how would you know what Atlanta radio hosts say, you alleged NY resident? — haven’t opined as to what the Braves should do is, as usual with you, completely false. Please, do us a favor and quit telling us how it’s done in NY or wherever you profess to have lived.
Let’s be clear: I think the Braves should trade Tex if they fall any further back than they are now before the July 31 deadline, or if they don’t make up ground on at least one or two of the three teams ahead of them in the division race in the next couple series.
But I also said in the original blog above (you must just conveniently skip that so you can say whatever you want, factual or not) that I’d trade Tex for Youklis right now, because Youklis can step in and give you an affordable, gritty player who isn’t such a dramatic drop in offense from Tex (he ain’t Tex, but Youk is on pace for about 25 homers and more than 100 RBI).
But I don’t think the Red Sox have any interest in trading Youkilis. I think Braves asked them if they’d do it and the Sox said no.
And the reason Wren hasn’t traded Tex, if you’ve been paying attention, is because the Braves haven’t given up on the season the way you or others hope they would have by now.
Sorry, but they don’t make trades or decisions based on when you believe they should call it a season and move on.
(And you never have quite explained why you care if Wren is missing the boat with this trade or whatever. I mean, unless I’m mistaken, you aren’t a Braves fan, right? So WHY DO YOU CARE?)
For others who don’t know where I stand on this stuff (not you, since you won’t let this register with you anyway, and will pop off again soon as though I haven’t said it):
I’d make a good offer for Nady right now, regardless of what happens with Teixeira in the coming weeks. But I know other teams including the Yankees and Rays are also interested in Nady, so it might end up costing a bit more than we originally thought to get him.
If Braves can’t get a suitable 1B replacement to plug in for Tex, I wouldn’t trade him long as Braves have any legit chance of winning the division, which they do have right now, whether some here believe it or not. I know they’ve shown no proclivity for a big run to reel in those three teams, but Braves are just not overly far back right now, and if they do get Hampton and/or Glavine and Soriano back … well, you don’t pull the plug and wave the white flag when you’re 6-1/2 out with 70-some to go. Gotta have a replacement 1B, not a minor leaguer, if you make the deal with this much time left and that not-overwhelming deficit.
OK, now you can go back to telling us what “drives” the conversation in New York, Anders. Like anyone here give’s a NY rat’s behind what drives the conversation there.
By DAP
July 14, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this
original jon if the yankees get tex, they could DH giambi more. it would really improve thier offense. but your right, the yanks dont have major leaguers on the block that we want…if they showered us with prospects that we could flip into some good MLB players, that might work.
By A-ville Ranger
July 14, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this
Somebody posted that Boston is desperate for offense.Well they’re 2nd in the majors in runs scored,2nd in OBP,7th in HR.
The Angels on the other hand are 26th in OBP,23rd in runs,22nd in HR.They still lead the AL in wins but their management must think they’d be the favorites for the WS with another big bat in their lineup.
It seems to me the only way Boston would make a deal that would only make them marginally better (if any) would be a sign and trade which with Boras seems very unlikely,that is unless Tex tells him to get it done.
By chris
July 14, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this
DOB,
What about a Texiera for a Kotchman/ Rivera package?
Chris from MD
By matt202
July 14, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this
Hey DOB, nice pick on the Guthrie song. Did you realize today is his birthday when you picked it?
Good luck in NY Chipper and Mac!
By BT
July 14, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this
Well it looks like DOB just ripped Anders (deservedly so I might add) a new one. Red eye flights and being misquoted can do that. Stick to your guns DOB, I am all for getting as good a deal as possible but your idea of going after Nady has a lot of merit.
By MGL
July 14, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this
I’m surprised some of the old Wilson lovers have not suggested trading Tex to the Yankees for Wilson Betemit. He has been playing 1st quite a bit.
By Original Jon
July 14, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this
DAP Agreed, only way that trade would work to the Yankees is if it was a multiple team trade. Say, we trade them Tex, they trade pitching prospects to the 3rd team building for next year and we get a first baseman and a prospect from that 3rd team. Who could be that 3rd team though?
By TURTSNAP
July 14, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this
DOB.. In looking over the Braves stats, I was shocked at one stat in particular. Frenchy and Tex are co-leaders in K’s, which isn’t the shocking part. They are co-leaders with Kelly Johnson! I wonder if the Braves, in addition to trying to address some power in the OF, are considering moving KJ in a trade and possibly giving the 2B job to Prado. Any thoughts?
By Braveheart
July 14, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this
I’m surprised some of the old Wilson lovers have not suggested trading Tex to the Yankees for Wilson Betemit. He has been playing 1st quite a bit.
Hey, man, I’m one of them annoying Betemit lovers but there is no way in hell I’d trade Tex for Betemit.
By McFann ;Ô;
July 14, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this
NL Starting Lineup for the All-Star Game:
1: Hanley Ramirez, SS, Marlins
2: Chase Utley, 2B, Phillies
3: Lance Berkman, 1B, Astros
4: Albert Pujols, DH, Cardinals
5: Chipper Jones, 3B, Braves
6: Matt Holliday, RF, Rockies
7: Ryan Braun, LF, Brewers
8: Kosuke F*******, CF, Cubs
9: Geovany Soto, C, Cubs (ha ha)
SP: Ben Sheets
The starting pitcher for the AL will be lefty Cliff Lee (12-2) of the Indians. Chipper said his right-handed swing felt better than his LHS, didn’t he?
By Anders
July 14, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this
DOB
Safe to say we’re not getting together for a beer at tomorrow night’s All Star game now?
I do like the passion in your post. I knew you had it in you. Save some of that for your Braves story lines.
By Sammy Kershaw
July 14, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this
You mean i could give you my underacheiving flamboyant over paid first baseman who seems to be ready to break out in a show tune at any minute, for your Gritty Underpaid, first baseman with 1988 Wade Boggs style facial hair and a prospect? Where do i sign up
By David-ATL14
July 14, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this
Very solid, well thought out stinging rebuke for the Village Idiot Anders
Keep up the Good work DOB!
By Matt
July 14, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this
Whew, SIT DOWN Anders.
By DAP
July 14, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this
original jon some possible third teams with guys we may want are washington…nick jonhoson is hurt and wouldnt play this year, but is a good option to bat third next year while chipper bats 4th.
texas, they have a young guy named chris davis who looks like a pretty good player.
the royals have billy bulter, who hasnt been great this season, but is supposed to end up being pretty steady hitter…
the indians might give up garko…i dont know how attached to him they are.
what sux is that none of these guys is going to replace tex…but i guess we can finish 4th without him as well as we can with him. also, three team trades are pretty tuff to pull off, no?
By Shaun
July 14, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this
Lew, Youkilis is a very good player but I just don’t think he’s the best the Braves could do for Tex. It is as simple as that for me.
Whether you think he’s going to get better or not, I think the Braves would be better off in the long run trading Tex for two or three good prospects.
Yes, Youkilis is a good player and isn’t likely to decline all that much within the next few years. But just because Youkilis has improved every season up to this point, doesn’t tell me all that much. He’s still in his 20s. Let’s wait until next year and the year after that. That’s when he’s likely to start declining some.
Youk-for-Tex would be a good trade for the Braves. But I just don’t think it’s the best trade for the Braves. I think they could get more.
By Anders
July 14, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this
DOB
But I also said in the original blog above (you must just conveniently skip that so you can say whatever you want, factual or not) that I’d trade Tex for Youklis right now, because Youklis can step in and give you an affordable, gritty player who isn’t such a dramatic drop in offense from Tex (he ain’t Tex, but Youk is on pace for about 25 homers and more than 100 RBI).
Where’s the screaming headline? Braves Need To Trade Tex For Youk - Now!
You know, to kind of get things going here.
As exciting as the headline on today’s blog is about your travel habits it doesn’t quite capture that state of the Braves imo (Not that you or others care for it).
By Greg O.
July 14, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this
DOB, I hope you got a seat in the main press box at Yankee Stadium. I was there for the Futures Game yesterday and auxiliary press box (third base line, all the way to the top of the upper deck) didn’t look like the best vantage point in the world.
By ernesto
July 14, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this
Another reason to like Nady, I think he can play first…don’t know how well, but I think I remember he played 1b for the Mets a few times.
Just as a back up plan if nothing else.
By Braves20
July 14, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this
Sammy Kershaw - You took the words right out of my computer! But f the Bosox do it, I have a few pieces of overpriced Florida real estate they might also be interested in.
We are trading a guy hitting .270 who can depart whatever club in three months. Anything more than a prospect or two would be incredible. Just another .270 hitting first baseman with a year or two to go on his contract would reasonable at this juncture.
By ernesto
July 14, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this
TURTSNAP - I’ve found myself questioning KJ’s future too.
And I’ve always been a KJ guy, but I’m starting to wonder if all he’s ever going to be is a very streaky hitter, with a good knowledge of the strike zone but who ironically strikes out a lot because of his long swing.
If that’s the case I think we need to consider exploring other possibilities at 2B, because this line up already has too many streaky hitters.
By N8
July 14, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this
If the Braves are going to be buyers, rather than sellers at the deadline, let me throw a name out there that wouldn’t be a bad bench guy to pick up.
Darin Erstad. He can play all three outfield positions and 1B, has a little bit of pop (more of a line drive/doubles kind of guy), and would be a good stick off the bench.
Take your “heart” and anger at him from destroying Estrada at the plate a few years ago out of the equation, and you’ll see that he would be perfect for our bench.
Of course, if the Braves are throwing up the white flag and conceding, then there is no use for a guy like Erstad. Though, if they were to find a RH bat for 1B next year, they could retain him and platoon him there.
But I think his days as a starter in this league are behind him.
Besides. He’s from my home-state, and the Astros are 13 back. My guess is that SOMEBODY will trade for him in a couple of weeks.
By Shaun
July 14, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this
TURTSNAP, why would the Braves trade a 26-year-old who has the same OPS as Michael Young and a better one than Adrian Beltre, Shane Victorino, Nick Swisher, Ken Griffey Jr. and Miguel Tejada?
By Anders
July 14, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this
DOB
To say I or others at the AJC, or radio hosts — and how would you know what Atlanta radio hosts say, you alleged NY resident?
I never said I know what they say. That’s why I was asking the question. I said all I hear is what’s on this blog.
Not sure why you’re so hell bent on subtly hinting that I’m not from NY all the time. I’ve lived here all my life. Never professed from being from anywhere else.If you’d like I’ll be at the parade and the game tomorrow - we can meet I’ll show you my NY license and we can put this to bed once and for all. Otherwise, lose this weak jab - it’s tiresome.
By TommyP
July 14, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this
DAP: No thanks on Nick Johnson. Has he ever played a season injury-free? I don’t think he has.
Royals? Not sure why a rebuilding team would give up one of their brighest, young, cheap talents. However, there is familiarity with Moore and Wren so there could be something smaller done.
Youkilis 1st half last year: .328, 9 homers, 44 ribbies. 2nd half last year: .238, 7, 39.
That’s par for the course for his career.
Trade one of the best 1st basemen in the majors in Tex for, honestly, a below average 1st baseman in terms of production at the plate?
You know why Youkilis has such a well known name in baseball? He’s on TV all the time with Boston and he had a great postseason. Not sure of his postseason stats career-wise but his NAME is bigger than his production.
By westy12
July 14, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this
For someone in Tex’s position to have Boras as an agent says so much about his character, or lack thereof, I’d say you’ve got to trade him.
Tex clearly isn’t a team guy. I mean, he could make 150 mil without employing an agent! Instead, he chooses the one agent in the sport who will create a constant distraction for himself and all his teammates.
Think about it. They guy could get 150 mil guaranteed, play where he wants, avoid the Boras stigma, allow the fans to embrace him in a place where he played his college ball. Sounds pretty attractive to me. Instead, he’d rather put his team in a bad spot for the second year in a row, all in the name of squeezing out a few extra millions from a city (NY, Boston) where he’s going to be on a very short leash with the fans because of his ridiculous contract.
That’s just greed and selfishness on a level that no fan can relate to, and I would guess he’s going to pay for it. Let’s not forget, Tex is a painfully slow starter, and his arrogant explanation about that being part of his “master plan” isn’t going to sit well when you make 200 mil. Better be prepared to play 162 for that kind of money, as Andruw Jones has learned the hard way. Ask Andruw whether 18 mil with the Dodgers makes him happier than 14 mil with the Braves.
Anyway, it just makes you appreciate someone like Chipper even more, a guy that actually values the fans, the city he plays in, the organization, his teammates, etc. A guy who’s willing to make a few personal sacrifices for the good of the franchise. A guy who’s about winning.
Clearly, Tex could care less about these things.
By Anders
July 14, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this
DOB
(And you never have quite explained why you care if Wren is missing the boat with this trade or whatever. I mean, unless I’m mistaken, you aren’t a Braves fan, right? So WHY DO YOU CARE?)
Because it’s the most interesting baseball trade possibility going on. As a baseball fan I would ask “Who wouldn’t be interested?”
I’m guessing somewhere in your travels the last week you expressed an opinion to someone about Brett Favre. I don’t believe you’re a Packers fan so why even have the converstaion? Kind of like that.
By timmy
July 14, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this
Money Talks
July 14, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this
Mark Teixeira rejected 140 millions, 8 yr contract by the Texas Rangers. Scott Boras, Teixeira’s agent, has placed a price tag much too high for the Braves to pay. The reality is that Teixeira will definitely not be in a Braves’ uniform next year. The best business decision is to trade Teixeira for some minor league prospects.
This is not necessarily true. I can see why he turned down that offer. Texas has finished at or near the bottom of their division every year since their last playoff berth in 99. He came up in 2003 and they only had 1 winning season in his time there. He wanted the opportunity to go to the playoffs and play more competitive ball. Which while he hasnt experienced it here yet, the opportunity is here to do so. He sees teams in better situations can make trade to acquire players to do that. Face it, no one other than A Rod was willing to play for the Rangers. I don’t believe the Braves are out the runnning to re-sign him. They will be if they trade him, though.
By ernesto
July 14, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this
Youk is known for 2nd half fades, and Tex usually goes molten after the break, so the timing would be good for the Sox.
Another reason they might consider it, but I honestly don’t see how it makes sense for them unless they were certain they were going to pony up whatever jack it takes to re-sign Tex.
They did spend $50 mil just for the “right” to talk to a pitcher, so who knows?
By Shaun
July 14, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this
DAP, I think the Red Sox would take Tex but I don’t see them trading for what the Braves would want. I don’t think they are desperate for him. Even without Ortiz, I just don’t thing the Red Sox offense is bad enough to justify trading what it would take for them to get Tex.
And Ortiz is supposed to return next Friday. So by no means are they desperate to find a replacement for Ortiz at this point. My guess is if Ortiz suffers a serious setback between now and the deadline, maybe they’ll get desperate for Tex. But even then, why would they trade Youkilis? If the Braves trade Tex to the Red Sox, I just don’t see how Youk is included in the deal. Is Tex really so much better than Youk that it’s worth trading him for a a couple of months of Tex or a couple of months then a huge contract?
By TennesseePaul
July 14, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this
Got back from a direct flight from NY to SoCal yesterday on Delta. Ha! I guess it’s the law of averages working out. I’m curious who’s the even-steven in this situation. DOB has all the troubles with Delta, I’ve had nothing but good times on that airline. Oh well, just gotta hang in there, take your cuts, and eventually it’ll go your way… at least that’s what I’ve heard.
I haven’t posted or read many posts in the past week. Tried to keep up with it all. This Teixeira trade talk is very interesting. I’m curious, and some what hopeful, that a trade would happen. One thing to look at, and I don’t know, perhaps this has been mentioned, if Teixeira is traded, the Braves get a good return and the team tanks real bad, they can sign a free agent and not lose the draft pick. They’d have to rival the Nats and Pirates though in the tanking business. Not really hoping for that but I guess it’d be the silver lining… Youkilis would be an interesting way to go. I can’t think of a Braves first baseman that has been of his ilk. The guys that stick out in my mind over the last 15-20 years are all mashers. Perhaps this direction would help. Or working with the Dodgers to pick up Loney wouldn’t be bad, but he’s still a little inconstant and isn’t much of a team leader type. Kotchman is OK, but a bit of an injury guy.
By BT
July 14, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this
Great post Westy.
By BossLady
July 14, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this
Congratulations to Jeff Porter, NL Trainer
By Anders
July 14, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this
DOB
I’d make a good offer for Nady right now, regardless of what happens with Teixeira in the coming weeks.
Not exactly out on a limb here. Anyway, care to share what a good offer might be? You know, so we can fill out our scorecards.
Gotta have a replacement 1B, not a minor leaguer, if you make the deal with this much time left and that not-overwhelming deficit.
Fair enough but if the GM is wrong he has to take the heat. Just saying “hey we weren’t that far back so I stayed the course” doesn’t work. He has to feel he has the team to catch the front runners. Not sure from a pitching standpoint that’s being very objective right now, but hey - what do I know?
Like anyone here give’s a NY rat’s behind what drives the conversation there.
Another not so subtle shot at NY. Chop shops, hot crowded subways and rats. Yeah, that’s all we got here. Maybe Rocker was more mainstream than I gave him credit for.
By Steve C.
July 14, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this
Anders,
Just curious, are you a Braves fan? Not that you have to be one to be on this blog, certainly not, but I have to wonder what drives certain people to come onto a blog all about the Braves, if you actually aren’t a fan. I mean, isn’t there enough out there in the world that would command your attention to a greater degree? Is it just to spew venom? Never in my wildest dreams would I think to go spend my valuable time regularly going on a Mets blog, Phillies, etc…unless I truly cared about the team. Being originally from NYC myself, I know there are tons of things to do at any given moment…go find some…away from a computer preferably…
By Shaun
July 14, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this
ernesto, why would the Braves trade a 26-year-old who has the same OPS as Michael Young and a better one than Adrian Beltre, Shane Victorino, Nick Swisher, Ken Griffey Jr. and Miguel Tejada?
By La Jolla Dawg
July 14, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this
Glad you enjoyed your time in San Diego, DOB. I am so happy I was wrong about the outcome of the series, no worries about being taunted now.
I would love the Braves to trade for Youklis—did you happen to see the hilarious bit Denis Leary did on him being Jewish and how Mel Gibson should take that info. and shove it? So. Funny.
By DAP
July 14, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this
tommyP im not sure if your whole post was directed at me, but i dont want to trade for youkilis. i was discussing a possible three team trade, sending tex to boston, prospects from boston to a third team, and players for that third team to the braves.
No thanks on Nick Johnson. Has he ever played a season injury-free? I don’t think he has. id say freak injuries mostly. he had a back strain in 2004, other than that, they are freak happenings, and platooning that have kept him from playing many full seasons. in 2006 he played 147 games, and hit .290 with a .948 OPS. he is a good player, extremly patient at the plate, and he gets on base alot, which means, with chipper batting 4th and mccann 5th, he would score alot of runs. if i were the braves, this offseason, i would buy low on johnson, especially if our alternative in scott thorman.
Royals? Not sure why a rebuilding team would give up one of their brighest, young, cheap talents. maybe if they recieved bright, young, cheap talents in return. im pretty sure that the royals are still in the mode where they would like to stock pile good young players. butler hasnt been great so far, so they may be willing to give him up for several players with potential.
By Anders
July 14, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this
David-ATL14
Hope you can keep up.
The Village Idiot
By lewie
July 14, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this
tex for loney + prospects+ for xn
blanco esco chip mac XN loney frenchie KJ
ain’t bad to look at
By BT
July 14, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this
Anders, hate to try to speak for DOB but I doubt he stays on the Packers website talking about Favre.
By TURTSNAP
July 14, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this
Shaun, I just don’t see an upside to KJ. You mention his OPS and you throw some other names out there. Griffey, and Tejada are on the down side of their careers. The others you mention have some upside, especially Shane Victorino. KJ just seems to muttle along in the average/mediocre realm, and his defense does hurt us (even if you discount the obvious dropped fly ball). I cringe anytime a grounder is hit to the right side of 2nd base.
By TennesseePaul
July 14, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this
And if the Yankees or Angels get Teixeira, would he really make their offenses any better than the Red Sox’s offense?
I’m not sure this is the question that is ever asked… I think teams look at this and stop five words short when making a plan for a team. Some thing along these lines: And if the Yankees or Angels get Teixeira, would he really make their offenses any better? I think teams try to build the best team they can, and not try to out build a certain club. Anything can happen in baseball. A given club could be hit with a rash of late season injuries rendering the comparisons moot.
By ppaddy123
July 14, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this
Steve C. 1:14 PM To answer your question about Anders…………It’s because he doesn’t have a life
By Anders
July 14, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this
Steve C
As I’ve said many times on here before, I find it boring to hear everything from another Mets fans perspective continuosly. The internet is the perfect place to interact with other people you normally could not. Not so sure why this is foreign to many. If I want to talk Mets with another Mets fan I could do that all day long without even getting on line.
Being from NY you know that we live with Yankee fans so sparring like this is second nature. I’m bored with Yankee fans so I came on here last summer and have been here since. Even through the September collapse.
As for spewing venom, I think if you read my posts you’d see that I don’t do that. (Can’t say I never did but that was last year). The only time I get testy is in response to arrows shot at me. I can be wrong and often I am - but I don’t think it warrants the level of venom I receive - but hey, that’s the price I choose to pay to be here. I get that. But I will defend myself - In case you haven’t noticed that already today.
By lewie
July 14, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
sorry, that was s’posed to read tex for loney and some prospects and then trade some prospects to the pirates for xavier, then the lineup would have a solid look to it w/plenty of options for moving parts if needed to compensate for injuries/slumps/whatever else
By McFann ;Ô;
July 14, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
The AJC forgot April 24 on their timeline of the first half. That was a pretty great game.
By tkg
July 14, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this
If the Braves and Red Sox were to agree to trade Tex for Youk in some capacity I can see why the Braves would do it, regardless of whether they are still in it or not.
It seems to be quite clear at this point Tex is outta here after the year. He wants to make serious jack and that’s fine … more power to him.
If Braves trade him for Youk they are getting a known quantity. A valuable veteran player under control for two more seasons. And, they will have more money to fill out the puzzle. Maybe they can find an everyday left fielder or 2B is KJ isn’t the answer. Maybe put the money toward getting a front line ace — a guy that you know is capable of completely shutting down the opposition every time he goes out there (Sabathia, Sheets, etc.). Youk plus Jason Bay or Nady or Youk plus Sabathia for 09 sounds a whole lot better than Tex for $17-20 million per and a Matt Diaz, Gregor Blanco, Brandon Jones, Omar Infante platoon. And again, if you trade Tex for Youk, I don’t think you’re throwing in the towel for 08, especially if you get Bay or Nady, too.
More on Tex: After having Tex here for almost a year now, I’m not convinced he’s a centerpiece guy for a franchise. He can be a valuable part of a franchise, but you don’t pay valuable parts upwards of $20 million per. You pay someone that much money and they’ve got to be a guy that carries you April-October.
By A-ville Ranger
July 14, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this
I would be good with Youkillis,maybe even a straight one for one trade.Has this Boston management ever signed a rent a player though ? I just don’t see why they’d give up a very good Boston type player with Tex going free agent after this season.Again perhaps a sign and trade if it could be worked out would make sense for all parties.
By BossLady
July 14, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this
Hey, DOB I know you got it, but, don’t spend your New York, All Star time responding to a jacka$$ It has got to be exciting reporting on the happenings and what Chipper and Brian are doing. It was ecstatic hearing about what is going on and inside the festivities. People, like that sense something special and want to ruin it for their own miserable sake.
By Anders
July 14, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this
BT
Anders, hate to try to speak for DOB but I doubt he stays on the Packers website talking about Favre.
And I don’t care about barbecue, blues music. cigars or motorcycles but I don’t criticize those that do and respect that everyone has their passions.
You still with me or are we just piling on here because the blogmaster made it ok today?
By keylargo
July 14, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this
Turtsnap
I want you to look at the rest of JF’s stats vs. KJ if you are so totally surprised with them having the same # of strikeouts.
Despite having 42 fewer AB’s than Francoeur, KJ has more:
runs scored 49 to 42
Hits 85 to 83
Doubles 22 to 19
Total Bases 135 to 133
Base on Balls 36 to 20
Stolen Bases 7 to 0
On Base % 346 to 285
Slugging % 431 to 375
Sacrifice Flys 3 to 2
On Base + slugging 777 to 659
To be fair Jeff Francoeur does have 1 more HR to lead 9 to 8
Don’t you think we should trade Francoeur and give RF to Prado instead?
By ernesto
July 14, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this
••Shaun••, not saying the Braves would or should trade KJ. I”m saying I don’t know if he’s the answer at 2B long term - something to think about.
I. m certainly not saying give him away or give up on him.
But if you’re not certain he’s the future on the right side, then why couldn’t he become a trade piece if it made the Braves better?
Chipper, Yunel and BMac are, to me anyway, the only “untouchable” every day guys.
Everyone else? I’d listen to offers.
By BA
July 14, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this
I love the way ‘ole DOB just ripped this schmuck Anders, and the loser spends something like five posts trying to back down. Pathetic. New York sucks. The Yankees suck. I have less than zero interest in anything that goes on with the Yankees freakshow. Maybe Anders should try to bring something of substance to the table when he posts, or just become a reader. A dumb reader.
By Greg O.
July 14, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this
Mets fans, generally, are an ignorant, unthoughtful group. I was at the Futures Game yesterday, wearing a Braves jersey and hat, when the Mets fans sitting behind me conversed loudly about how much the Braves will regret the Teixeira deal (as Elvis Andrus made his way to the plate). I had to remind them that their team traded Scott Kazmir for Victor Zambrano, netting them several bad starts and no draft pick compensation at the end of Zambrano’s contract while the Braves, at the very least, will get two top draft picks. Omar Minaya’s brilliant deal of Heath Bell and Royce Ring to San Diego for Jon Adkins and Ben Johnson also made for nice rebuttal material.
By Jamie in Richmond
July 14, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this
DOB (or anyone else),
I’m wondering aloud if the Dodgers might have a fit for a Tex trade? They’re in desperate need of offense, especially power. Would asking for Loney and Kemp, straight up in a 2 for 1 be asking too much, in your opinion? Kemp could obviously play left for us, and could play CF next yr if Jordan’s not ready and Kotsay’s back doesnt make re-signing him a possiblity. Is that asking too much from LA?
By Anders
July 14, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
BA
New York sucks
Yeah, that’s the gist of Chippers and McCann’s feelings in the blog above.
The only substance you bring is the hint of substance abuse.
BTW- I’m a Met fan not a Yankee fan. You know we have two teams -right?
By SeaAtl
July 14, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this
SWEET! I don’t know what I liked more - DOB’s blog, or his 11:30 AM post! Both excellent - the Bronx atmosphere and/or Anders’ comments seemed to have fired up our man. As an admitted frustrated Braves fan, I don’t see the season over by any stretch. A crappy, inconsistent, disappointing first-half? No doubt. But lots of baseball left and even without some of the injured guys returning - if the guys on the field hit with a bit of consistency, they could reel off a nice win streak. Problem is, the Phils and Mets (until recently) haven’t played up to their potential yet either and are poised to start some big win streaks. To me, the second half of the season usually brings with it almost the same positive excitement and hope as spring training.
By monty
July 14, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this
Personally I think it would be hard for Youkalis to come in this year and fill Tex’s shoes, may be a little pressure there. If he is a second half fader like some say he is,then the differential I think would be too much to give up in a pennant chase(assuming the Braves stay in the hunt). However, if we fall farther back then I think a proven player is better than 2 prospects at the end of the year.
By ATLFAN
July 14, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this
Westy,
Tex being represented by Boras = lack of character? Give me a break. How dramatic and self righteous can you sound man. The guy plays every day, seems to get along with his teammates and is hardly the primary reason for the Braves ills this season. Do you know Tex? Can you attest personally to him having a lack of character? My guess is no. And exactly how is Tex putting his team in a bad spot this year? Is it his decision to be traded? Is he publicly ripping his teammates and asking to get out of Atlanta? OR, is he in fact putting his team in a decent spot by giving them the opportunity to make a trade that might positively impact the organization if in fact he is not coming back? Tex wanting to see what the free agency market can offer is nothing new. How do we know that the Braves are even serious about bringing him back at all? Do any of us know if he received a fair offer from Wren? No, we don’t know that either. It’s not fun when losing a valuable player appears imminent but let’s go easy on the character assasination emails. Tex isn’t running for President, he’s playing 1st base. As for Chipper, the only thing fans in other cities would be more upset with than a slow start is somebody who consistently can’t suit up anymore. What does it matter how good a guy is if he’s out of the lineup for 20% of the games every year.
By Anders
July 14, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
Greg O
Was that you?
By Salty
July 14, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this
the Bronx atmosphere and/or Anders’ comments seemed to have fired up our man.
Hmm…could be, but I’m going with a double-espresso on an empty stomach after a nine-hour red-eye from San Diego, into a miserably rainy and grey NYC day…and knowing your day is really just now getting started! LOL!
By N8
July 14, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
westy
I’m not sure Tex having Boras as an agent, says anything about his character.
Now, had he hired Boras in between the time of the trade last year, and now, I might agree with you. But he has been with him for a while.
I don’t know Boras, and tend to rip him whenever I get a chance. But the man is VERY good at what he does.
I usually lean to the side of the players being “greedy” and out of touch with reality, when it comes to their demands.
Some certainly are (Latrell Spreewell anybody?) But most are just milking what the market says they are worth.
In business (ANY business), your services are only worth as much as somebody will pay for them. Anybody who has tried to sell something on E-Bay, understands this theory. Is Arod worth 250 million? Common sense, says not a chance. The fact that Hicks gave him the money, says that he is.
All you have to do is watch the movie 8 men out, and if you are one that believes how much of a weasel the owners were (and I am), then you’d realize that the players union is just nipping the “weasel-ness” in the bud, by screwing the owners BEFORE they screw the players.
I hated the players during the strike. Not because they were fighting for what they thought they deserved, but because they were arrogant enough to NOT think of the fans (the ones who pay silly money for tickets and merchandise, that allows them to DEMAND what they think they need), when they allowed the remainder of the season and playoffs to be canceled.
I actually sided with the players (which is why I never had a problem with Glavine’s public comments as the player’s rep), but the owners and players should have NEVER let it come to that.
But to say Tex has no character because he employs Boras is silly.
By glove51
July 14, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this
DOB: the Wilco discs are on their way.
By N8
July 14, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this
westy
One thing that I meant to actually agree with you about, is that Tex does need to ask Andruw about being the BIG DOLLAR free agent, and having a slow start.
If Tex signs the huge deal most expect him to sign (especially if that signing is for a team that gives up prospects/players in a trade for him this summer), and starts next year like he did this year (and has every other year), the boo-birds are gonna come loud and fast.
For instance, lets say the Yankees give him 25 a year, and he starts of this way, he not only will get booed non-stop within the first 2 weeks of the season, he’ll have one of the Steinbrenner’s publicly ripping him within a month.
I’m sure he’s aware of that, but it will be interesting to see if something like that happens.
The fans in Boston, NY or LA, will NOT put up with what he did in Atlanta in April and May. Not for a second.
By kirknga
July 14, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this
But I don’t think the Red Sox have any interest in trading Youkilis. I think Braves asked them if they’d do it and the Sox said no.
DOB , sorry if I missed the answer already, but last night there was some confusion over who was the offeror. Gammons said it was the Braves, however those watching the Sox broadcast say it was the announcers said it was the Sox.
So we are saying now that the Braves made the offer?
If not, it would seem that all these “the Sox would never trade Youkilis” might be premature.
Either way, it’s good to see people finally coming around to the concept of including major league talent in a Tex trade and not just prospects.
By Munke
July 14, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this
Why not see about trading Tex to the Rays for one of their many OF and a prospect or two. Then turn around and make a deal trading the prospects received from Tampa to the Padres to get Adrian Gonzalez, which I know are shopping around. We will free up a lot of cap space, get a couple of younger players for a lot cheaper and greatly improve the team. The Rays are in a hot race with Boston and Tex could be a good DH or 1B for the Rays with Pena replacing the ancient Cliff Floyd. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.
Wren, look into this! DOB, pass it on! :D
By Munke
July 14, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this
Why not see about trading Tex to the Rays for one of their many OF and a prospect or two. Then turn around and make a deal trading the prospects received from Tampa to the Padres to get Adrian Gonzalez, which I know are shopping around. We will free up a lot of cap space, get a couple of younger players for a lot cheaper and greatly improve the team. The Rays are in a hot race with Boston and Tex could be a good DH or 1B for the Rays with Pena replacing the ancient Cliff Floyd. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.
Wren, look into this! DOB, pass it on! :D
By randyh
July 14, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this
the braves have so many needs right now it seems they have to be sellers and restock the minors. too many holes to fill to be legit contenders and too many ifs. feel sorry for hoss, but maybe with the right moves (takes more than youkillis) maybe 09.
By lewie
July 14, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this
there’s no way that LA gives up both Loney and Kemp….although i’d love to have both
you gotta figure that Tex can get us Loney and at least one solid prospect…the question is which prospect?
By Shamus Thacker
July 14, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this
Too bad it wasn’t Muts fans on that double-decker bus. They obviously prefer busting their noggins by falling outa Shea..
By Rex
July 14, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this
youkilis is a good player, but he’s no Teixera. His numbers are NOT superior. Yuk will not hit 40 hr and drive in over 130 and though he’s a solid fielder Tex is a step aboove there also. If the Braves could sign Yuk for a few years and get a prospect it would make sense
By ernesto
July 14, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this
N8 - the fans in LA are not to be confused with the fans in NY or Boston.
The “Arrive in the 2nd, Leave by the 7th” -passion that rules at Chavez Ravine wouldn’t play in NY or Bos.
They’re booing Andruw b/c, well, what fan base wouldn’t at this point…other than the ATL?
I bet Tex could get off to a nice slow start in LA just fine.
By Shaun
July 14, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this
TURTSNAP and ernesto, Kelly Johnson’s strikeout total isn’t such a big deal. He gets on base and he slugs better than many other major league secondbasemen. Here’s something I’m fond of saying whenever this discussion comes up: How often a hitter makes an out and how many bases he gains is more important than how he makes an out. A hitter has to strike out an awful lot in order for it to start eating into his on-base and slugging numbers enough for him to be unproductive.
Here are his career numbers: .266/.356/.434.
He’s only 26. Johnson is just starting to peak.
Johnson, although he’s not great defensively, has solid range and his offense is good enough that his defense at second can be tolerated. Also Johnson could possibly move to first if they can’t find a replacement for Teixeira. And if Johnson’s defense gets worse, they could conceivably move him back to the outfield.
By ernesto
July 14, 2008 2:51 PM | Link to this
Shaun, you missed the point of what I was saying, unless your point is - see these numbers, they make KJ untouchable!
By Shamus Thacker
July 14, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
Wish we could get Youk for Hex. I honestly don’t believe Hex will be more than a 25/100 guy once he gets the mega contract. I just don’t think he cares enough. He cares plenty about money, it’s baseball he doesn’t give a zhit about. I agree with DOB that we shouldn’t trade him till all hope is lost, unless we can get Youk in return.. And just think, if Youk ever goes sour, we’ve gotta ready-made nickname; Yuck.
By ernesto
July 14, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this
Why would the Pads be shopping Gonzalez? He makes less than a mil a year. And he’s only around 26. And he has 22 taters this year already.
Unless they have a strong desire to go from weak offense to no offense.
By beachcomber
July 14, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this
N8 - re: you comments on ballplayers being out of touch with reality, I recount an event I was at several years ago. It was a seminar of city leaders throughout Florida seeking answers to keeping teams from drifting out west. BTW the upshot of this conference was the building or renovating of several Grapefruit Stadiums - most notably for me - Bright House in Clearwater.
One of the keynote speakers was Orel Hersheiser - a guy I always considered level headed. Among his suggestions were police escorts after the games so players could make it to early dinner reservations and perhaps an exemption from Florida’s sales tax for ballplayers. This from one of the more level-headed players in the game at that time. Think of what some of the radicals in the game may want.
By the way, I agree with your comments about Tex having character - seems like a stand-up guy. Just wish he hit better in the clutch.
By Shamus Thacker
July 14, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this
Youkillus would be another fine monicker for a flopping Youk.
By Shamus Thacker
July 14, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this
If Andruw had signed with Philly, he’d need armed guards flanking him in the outfield.
By westy12
July 14, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this
I respect those who disagree, but I wouldn’t want to have Boras attached to my name in any way. True, you could be Tim Donaghy’s best friend and be a great guy, but it sure raises suspicions. (I do think Donaghy is a reasonable comparison, by the way. Boras has been equally bad for baseball, with the way he has tried to destroy the draft, free agency, etc.)
Still, it does seem a bit selfish to make your teammates (Rangers last year, Braves this year) answer questions all year about your agent and free agency. I mean, choose any other agent in baseball, and you avoid those distractions. You at least get the benefit of the doubt that it would theoretically be possible to resign at fair market value, which no one thinks with Boras. I don’t think it’s any coincidence that none of the other Braves want to be associated with him.
The bottom line, Tex just strikes me as an A-Rod type player, and Boras is a big part of the reason for that. He puts up numbers, but he’s not a particularly clutch player, and he doesn’t necessarily make your team any better. When the Braves trade him, I say good riddance.
And by the way, I can unequivocally say I’d rather take 150 mil to play for a “hometown” team, then employ Boras and make 200 mil for the Yankees. So there’s no hypocrisy here, honestly, 150 mil would be enough for me. I’m guessing Tex will come around to this line of thinking when his team is losing next spring, he’s hitting .150 (just as the master plan calls for), and he’s getting booed unmercilessly. But what do I know…
By kirknga
July 14, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this
the braves have so many needs right now it seems they have to be sellers and restock the minors.
And where are all these holes? And where are these new stock of prospects going to play? Don’t we have players like Schafer, and Heyward, and Hanson on the way already?
Is it SS? Catcher?2nd base?, it likely isn’t 3rd base, or even RF as of yet. We have 4 rookies pitching in the rotation now, and we have young closers and setup men. I see 3 positions remaining, and one of those, CF, is slated to be filled by players already in the system.
So now we’re down to two positions, Ist base and LF. Shouldn’t we address those positions before we go restocking the minors?
The Braves are 5 games under .500, not 15-20 games. I think there is a big difference in what a team 5 games under needs than what a team 15 games under needs. The Braves are also not without talent in the farm system. It is apparently not at LF or 1st base.
By brian
July 14, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this
I am sure the Braves have asked about Youkilis but my guess is that they are putting that out there for a reason - to try and get more from the Angels, Dodgers, Yankees, Orioles, or another team. If Wren learned anything from JS I guess we should expect the unexpected.
I am sure Wren has targeted youkilis, Loney, Kotchman and a few other people that he would move Tex for - in or out of the playoff race - that would not set us back big time this year, yet build for the future with one of the above and a prospect or two. Those other 1B would help fill the gap until Heward takes over at 1B (if he does not stay in the OF)
By Bobby's Cox
July 14, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this
and Braves trainer Jeff “Bubba” Porter, who was picked to serve as NL trainer.
Yes indeed, Porter had an eventful first half…
maybe porter will work his magic on the cubs, phillies, and mets players….wink wink.
By TennesseePaul
July 14, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this
ernesto: Happens a lot with Payne. He has a cut-n-paste response to certain topics. It takes a bit of time for him to get outside that box.
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this
Just got back from the scrum that was the AL and NL player interview sessions at the Grand Hyatt, adjointing Grand Central Terminal/Station.
And all I can say is, pass the Excedrin. Or the Valium.
Wow, that thing is always a madhouse, but this year it was magnified times two due to the increase in media members and the relatively small hall they had us in. Crazy. Absolutely nuts.
If you folks could only have seen the elbowing, shouting mass of humanity surrounding A-Rod at his interview podium (each player has an individual podium, all players for AL did their interviews for one hour, then they clear out the ballroom and an hour later, all the NL players did interviews for one hour.
Chipper had quite a steady throng of cameras and microphones in his face, too. Big crowd around him. I heard him answer at least 12 different variations of “What’s the New York stage and Yankee Stadium mean to you?” And at least as many about Shea.
McCann’s podium was set up about 10 feet away from Chipper’s which was convenient because reporters could stop at McCann’s before or after talking to Chipper.
McCann had quite a few more interviewers around him this year compared to last year, when the dude sat with one or two reporters around him out at San Francisco when he was the only Braves All-Star and the Bonds circus overshadowed all.
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this
General consensus from talking today to 15 or so writers who either cover other teams or cover major league baseball in general, is that the trade market for Teixeira isn’t great. Bunch of teams will want him as a free agent, but most will probably wait and make free-agent offers, rather than give up players or prospects now to get him without knowing if they can re-sign him.
As you might suspect, Boras is not known for having his guys sign contract extensions in these situations after a trade. When his guys get this close to free agency, he takes it all the way so he can work it as only he can do, playing one team off another, often with a mysterious supposed offer from an undisclosed team.
Can’t do all that in a case where a team might give you a window to work out an extension with another team in order to facilitate a trade, even if the Braves were so inclined to give such a window.
By Shaun
July 14, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this
ernesto, I agree that literally no one should be untouchable, not even McCann, Chipper, etc. If a team gives up enough talented players at the right age, I would trade any player. And I do mean any player.
But I think Kelly Johnson is and should be in the Braves’ long-term plans (next 3-5 years or possibly more). I don’t think he’s the kind of guy you aggressively shop. He’s good, young and cheap and could conceivably play several positions.
By N8
July 14, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this
ernesto
You are probably correct about the LA fans. They’ve always have been a late arriving & early departing crowd.
That being said, if they were to trade Loney for Tex, and then dish out some big dollars to him, the Dodgers fans would expect big things from him from the get go, every season.
But your point is a good one.
Can I “substitute” Philadelphia for L.A. ??? LOL!
By brent a.
July 14, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this
Brandon Phillips
By A-ville Ranger
July 14, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
I don’t know about holding Tex till ”all hope is gone”.That would be the day the Braves are mathematically eliminated.
More realistic is holding off till close to the deadline and make a judgement call.Is it really smart to keep the guy if he’s not going to be re-signed and there’s a 10 or 15 % possibility of making the playoffs ?
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this
DOB has all the troubles with Delta, I’ve had nothing but good times on that airline. Oh well, just gotta hang in there, take your cuts, and eventually it’ll go your way… at least that’s what I’ve heard.TennPaul
We didn’t have any problems. Just that a bunch of us — Braves TV people, Bowman, me — had to take a scheduled 10:20 p.m. flight to Atlanta because there were none earlier in the evening, and I then had to walk down Terminal A to catch another flight to New York (while Bowman headed home to sleep, as he reminded me). My connecting flight left on time, too. Just a bear of a night/day, but there were no direct flights from San Diego to New York. Not anything that went wrong or any flight was cancelled — there are just no direct flights on Delta on Sunday night from S.D. to N.Y.
By N8
July 14, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this
Rex “youkilis is a good player, but he’s no Teixera. His numbers are NOT superior. Yuk will not hit 40 hr and drive in over 130 and though he’s a solid fielder Tex is a step aboove there also. If the Braves could sign Yuk for a few years and get a prospect it would make sense”
It appears as though you get what I’m about to say, but I want to say it anyhow.
I don’t think anybody is saying that Youkilis is gonna put up Tex numbers. But he would put up decent numbers at a very friendly salary, allowing Wren to spend money on other players.
Even with Tex’s slow starts, I think the only “number” the Braves are concerned about with Tex is the number that will go on his paychecks each month.
If Ted Turner still owned the team, and the fans were showing up like they did in the 90’s, Tex would already be signed (even WITH Boras as his agent).
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this
Because it’s the most interesting baseball trade possibility going on. As a baseball fan I would ask “Who wouldn’t be interested?”
I’m guessing somewhere in your travels the last week you expressed an opinion to someone about Brett Favre. I don’t believe you’re a Packers fan so why even have the converstaion? Kind of like that.Anders
Seriously, what is wrong with you? That’s the worst analogy posted here in at least a month.
By TommyP
July 14, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this
Anders: I, for one, appreciate the baseball talk. A different perspective, be it in a tasteful way, is always welcome.
Whomever mentioned Adrian Gonzalez, well, they’re not shopping him. He’s a stud, he’s young, he’s cheap.
DAP: Nick Johnson is done for THIS year, missed all of LAST year, was injured in 2005 and 2004. Those are his post-Yankee days. One year where he made it through a full season.
Not sure you can count on a guy like that. (Washington didn’t…they signed Dmitri Young long term!)
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this
By the way, Chipper’s mom and dad stood off to the side, in a corner between Chipper and McCann’s booth, just out of camera range. I went over and talked to them quite a while for a story I’m gonna write right now.
They just about cried talking of how proud they were of Chipper, and also of Brian.
By Munke
July 14, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this
I can’t remember where I saw that the Padres were in a selling/rebuilding mode that also included Gonzalez for prospects. I tried looking for it, but haven’t had any luck. Could have been a rumor that was unbased, but it’s still something to look into. I’d trade several prospects we currently have to get Gonzalez. He’s a stud that is still being overlooked by many. Maybe make a trade to take Maddux’s payroll off the Pad’s books with Gonzalez… it’s a long shot, but still would be better than getting Youk period.
By DAP
July 14, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this
this offseason, i hope the braves take hmapton’s prorated 8mil per year salary they have been paying, and tex’s 12.5 mil from this year, and sign both milton bradley and orlando hudson to contracts in the ballpark of 3 years/$30mil. then, have kelly johnson play first base, and we will have money left over for raises and to sign some bullpen guys. it really sux to move KJ again, but i think he can do it. the lineup would be:
escobar SS
hudson 2B
chipper 3B
bradley LF
mccann C
johnson 2B
frenchy RF
blanco CF
we would score runs, bullpen would have guys like soriano, gonzalez, moylan will be back, maybe we can resign ohman, and our rotation would have the same crew we have now, hudson, jurjens, jojo, campillo, morton.
we need to do something like this unless we can afford to get a really good pitcher like sheets. i think it will be a fun offseason for the braves.
By TommyP
July 14, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this
Wow….just wow.
The guy is talking baseball….why attack him like a few of y’all are?
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
Is it really smart to keep the guy if he�s not going to be re-signed and there�s a 10 or 15 % possibility of making the playoffs? Brent A
Only if you find out the best you can get for him from a team as a two-month rental is a return that’s not clearly better than the two draft picks you’d get as compensation if/when he leaves as a free agent.
Don’t know if it’ll come to that or not, but I suspect it won’t, that they”ll hav a better offer than that if they shop him aggressively.
By Munke
July 14, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this
as good of a lineup as that potentially is DAP, I seriously doubt Bradley would make a good clean up hitter. He’s got decent speed, but not enough pop in his bat to scare pitchers. If McCann continues to improve the way he has, I see him being the clean-up hitter with Bradley in the 5 spot. Of course this is all conjecture assuming these off-season transactions take place. lol
By McFann ;Ô;
July 14, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the updates, Chief. (Love that kind of stuff.) Please keep us posted (yuk yuck!).
Can’t wait for the story!
By TennesseePaul
July 14, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this
Interesting insight DOB on the Teixeira business. We’ll probably watch the guy walk, but we should get a couple of draft picks. Bummer… but I think some of that will change as teams get more desperate… Teixeira could put the Dodgers over the top in the West…
I was looking this up because I was curious and I saw a previous comment on another blog (making up for lost blogging I suppose)… Cameron is hitting .231 right now with 71 K’s… that’s 45 more K’s than extra base hits for the guy. And 21 more K’s than hits. He’s only posted 50 hits while pretty much striking out the rest of the time. He’s struck out in 33% of his at bats. His hits + K’s are 56% of his at bats. And his K/H ratio is 1.42, K/XBH is 2.73. Way too many K’s.
His OPS looks better than Kotsay’s over similar number of games. And the OPS+ (park adjusted figures) show Cameron as slightly better than average when it comes to power and OBP, and Kotsay slightly below average. Each player has about the same number of RBI’s when you subtract the self RBI from HRs.
I’d still rather have Kotsay (21 K’s, only 7 more K’s than XBH but he has 37 more hits than K’s). Kotsay is more consistent at the plate which is what I would want from a guy I’d bat second in the line up…
AB H XBH SO BB K/H K/XBH K/BB RBI-HR AVG Kotsay 208 58 14 21 16 0.36 1.50 1.31 19 .279 Cameron 216 50 26 71 28 1.42 2.73 2.54 21 .231He’s certainly improved from last season. About a 100 points better in SLG, 50 points in OBP and 65 points in average in practically the same number of at bats. Just hope he can stay healthy the rest of the season.
By Shaun
July 14, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
DOB, sounds like if the Braves are going to get close to equal value for Tex, it’s going to have to be a desperate team.
The Yankees could fall into that category unless they win like five in a row to start the second half. Only issue is, do they have the players to give up?
Maybe the Tigers, who may feel they could use a jolt, or one of the NL West teams, who need offense.
I think the Rays are an outside possibility, if they feel like this season is going to be one of the few opportunities to overtake the powerhouse teams in the AL East, and they feel Teixeira could put up the MVP-type numbers he did at the end of last season.
Seems the Braves best chance is to target the desperate teams, if they want to get something.
Still a relative long way to go before this thing could play itself out and the Braves can determine if it’s worth pulling the trigger. In fact, they are one of the “desperate” teams that may use Teixeira’s services to get back in it.
By ppaddy123
July 14, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this
DOB Agree about needing trade value for Tex. In your conversations with other writers, did any other Braves get talked about, other than Ohman?
By Pat
July 14, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this
DOB: All’s I can say is…..you SURE ruffled Anders feathers! ;-)
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this
Not really. And I was the one bringing up Ohman, because guys were asking me who the Braves might trade. A LOT of teams need relief pitching. if they want to trade him, they can get something in return.
If they trade him, that’s when you know they’re waving white flag.
By ATLFAN
July 14, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Any rumblings at all about the White Sox being players for Tex? I know Konerko is under contract but he is having a terrible season, and Kenny Williams seems like the type that will shake the roster to make a run.
By TURTSNAP
July 14, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this
I CAN NOT wait to read the article you are working about Chipper and his parents. Chipper is a tremendous asset to this Braves organization, and that is an understatement!
Shaun, don’t mean to disagree again, I do see your valid points as well, but….. I would say that Chipper and McCann would be the two untouchables on this team. I see what you are saying, if a team was offering a Kings ransom, you consider it, but still…….
By DAP
July 14, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this
TommyP Not sure you can count on a guy like that. (Washington didn’t…they signed Dmitri Young long term!)
exactly why johnson is a good buy-low option. the guy isnt injury prone, like mike hampton. he missed 2007 because he broke his leg in a collision, and messed his wrist up this year in a collision also. these arent examples of his body breaking down, they are freak injuries.
By ernesto
July 14, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this
Shaun, we’ll have to agree to disagree then, as I think you see KJ as a core guy.
I see him as just a piece.
Yunel, BMac, and Chipper are the core, in my book.
By Carolina Matt
July 14, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this
The Yankees were 14 games back in ‘78 on July 19 and came back and won the division…So come on Bravos! 6.5 ain’t so bad!
By macdwolfpack
July 14, 2008 4:20 PM | Link to this
DOB, using your logic that you aren’t going to get much for a two month rental in Texeria, then if that is the case why did the Braves give us so much for a 3 month rental last year? Using your logic the trade for Texeria, particularly given that he’s having a sub par year for him was one of the worst trades negotiated by the Braves in a long time. Why do I say that? If all you can get now for him is a couple of prospects then why in the heck did we clean out the top of our farm system for a 1 yr, 2 month rental? If your logic is true then it makes the deal look that much worse if all we get for him in the end is draft picks.
Just using your logic.
By Anders
July 14, 2008 4:23 PM | Link to this
Pat
DOB: All’s I can say is…..you SURE ruffled Anders feathers! ;-)
Yeah, because DOB didn’t sound ruffled at all in his 11:30 post. Way to stay objective Pat.
By DAP
July 14, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this
TommyP my mistake on how Johnson hurt his wrist, it was not in a collision…(i still say buy low, if our other option is thorman)
By ernesto
July 14, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this
N8 - Philly fan would be launching Tex-seeking batteries on day 2 of the season.
By ernesto
July 14, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this
Philly fan booed Darren Daulton’s SON on father and son day.
Who would want to play there?
Philly has to be on more no-trade clauses than any other team in MLB.
By N8
July 14, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
DOB
Chipper was just on Buck and Kincaid and when they asked him if he’d be upset if the traded Tex.
He stated that it would be good and bad. Bad that the season didn’t go the way they wanted, and that it would mean they were throwing in the towel. But good, that they’d get some talent for the future in return, which he said would be good for the organization.
He also stated that if they are around where they are right now (6.5 out), around the deadline, he can’t see them being sellers, but if they were to fall 8+ games out, then it would make sense.
I thought it was a pretty candid comment, but also just shows that while he probably loves having Tex “protect” him, he certainly knows what’s best for the organization. Total “team” guy, IMO.
How can anybody NOT like Chipper? He exemplifies EXACTLY what an Atlanta Brave should be.
By Congrats Chipper & Mac
July 14, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the updates, DOB. Can’t wait for the Jones’ story.
By ncscoots
July 14, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this
Holy Cornelia, it’s like blood in the water around here, trade-sharks circling everywhere. Is there a player who HASN’T been touted by the blog as the perfect piece in a Teixeira trade? I knew that, once we got the obligatory Chone Figgins mention, the blog would put EVERYBODY in play, LOL.
But be clear on one thing: if the guy is traded, there is zero chance that the offense won’t be worse. Zero. Posters whine about his agent, his slow start, call him un-clutch, yada yada yada. As you wish. Anybody posting such drivel should be barred from moaning about the offense after he’s gone, if that becomes reality.
Oh, who am I kidding? Some here would cry about the out in a 4-for-5 night. Just the nature of the beast, at least, currently. And so, because Teixeira hasn’t been the all-universe player that many here predicted for 2008, he’s dead to the blog now. Of course, most of the people taking the latter position are the same ones who took the former, with a few games in between, but I don’t find that too surprising. That kind of blog brilliance has become commonplace.
By DAP
July 14, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this
macdwolfpack Just using your logic.
do you know what logic means? im thinking no, because your post didnt even make any sense.
By Anders
July 14, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this
DOB
Seriously, what is wrong with you? That’s the worst analogy posted here in at least a month.
To be direct, nothing is wrong with me. I’ve gotten enough sleep, I didn’t fly across the country last night and I haven’t been herded into a small space with 500 other people fighting for elbow room. Had that happened to me, well then maybe I might be off center a bit.
Where do I pick up my Wam award? (Worst Anology of the Month)
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this
N8, agree with your 4:31 post — and with Chipper’s comments.
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
DOB, using your logic that you aren’t going to get much for a two month rental in Texeria, then if that is the case why did the Braves give us so much for a 3 month rental last year? macdwolfpack
Wrong. Entirely wrong. Braves got him planning to have him for TWO playoff runs, for TWO Octobers. That didn’t work out, but that’s what they had planned.
He was under their control at a reasonable salary this year through arbitration. The team getting him now will have him under contract for only the rest of the season.
Entirely different circumstances.
By Steve from OH
July 14, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this
N8, earlier you wrote about Darin Erstad as a possible OF/bench solution for the Braves. Let me just say no, no, and more no. As a starter, he’s out of the question and I think you alluded to that in your post. As a bench bat, he makes more sense, but keep in mind that his OPS+ for the last 8(!) seasons is, respectively, 82,86,72,97,87,57,68, and 100 this year. That’s bad. That’s Jeff Francouer 2008 bad (76, btw. Greg Norton’s OPS+ this year? 68, just to put things in perspective). Also, this season, while OPS+ing 100, Erstad is VORPing a hefty -3.0 (ouch), which indicates we could probably find a better replacement elsewhere, and for a lot less cash.
As a bench guy, he’s not completely terrible because he’s so versatile, but I would be a little upset if FW signed him to a 1 Million dollar (or more) contract without exploring other options.
By Anders
July 14, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this
Tommy P
The guy is talking baseball….why attack him like a few of y’all are?
You know why? Because the blogmaster not only condones it - he promotes it. Then when I defend myself he paints me as this madman from NY. Honestly, it’s disgraceful. That said, I won’t leave.
There are enough decent folks here who I enjoy the give and take with. I now consider you one of them.
I appreciate your back up.
By Random
July 14, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this
Catching up:
DOB: “No thanks on the “real job.” If this one’s a pretend job, I’ll stick with it, thank you.”
All right “Mr Prickly”, be that way. I know you know, whether you refuse to admit it or not, that “pretend job” is not the opposite of “real job”, at least not in that context. “Get a real job” is a common, almost folkloric, piece of good-natured joshing. Don’t be so damned defensive all the time.
Whatever subtext there was revolved around the fact that you’ll inevitably be moving on to a better job, that you’re more than good enough to move up, that you won’t be walking the beat forever like Cagney’s dad — you’ll make detective one day (or the wired equivalent).
DOB: “By the way, what kind of “real” work do you do?”
Hey, I’ll be the first to admit that I’m still getting’ paid by the hour — I definitely do not have a superiority complex when it comes to jobs. I envy you yours (except for all the hard work, all the travel which I know does get old fast, and all the crazy hours).
DOB: “No, what’s conspicuous is your not knowing Spilborghs went on the DL last week with an oblque strain that’s expected to sideline him for a month. Especially since we talked about it here the day you made your initial comment.”
Au contraire, refrigidaire — I was the first one here who mentioned Spilborgh’s injury. Right here, on 9 July. And “we” (meaning you) never mentioned Spilborghs’ name except to dodge my question by bringing up his injury (as a red herring, imo).
And you are still avoiding the question of whether the Braves were angling for him in a trade. My guess is that his injury is probably what brought Nady more fully onto the Braves’ radar screens.
DOB: “Been a bit of a busy day, as you might imagine. (Here at the fake job where you play like you’re working all day on Sunday, right Random?)”
Wrong again — you’re confusing me with someone else from a month or two ago. “Not I, said the cat.”
DOB: “I’m with Shaun on Andruw Jones: Not far-fetched to say he can still make the Hall of Fame… . It’s not at all the slam-dunk it seemed it would be two years ago, when he appeared to be on pace to get 14-15 Gold Gloves and hit 500-600 homers if he played till 35 or older… . if he bounces back to anything even remotely close to what he used to be and plays a few more seasons, he should still finish with 450 or more homers, and he’s already got 10 Gold Gloves.”
Not disputing here — just wanted to mention an item of interest I saw a few days ago on TV. “Best Dang Sport Show” had a special on “50 Best Dang Catches” — football and baseball together.
They had two or three at least from Jim Edmonds, a whole special piece on Torii Hunter, but not one single Andruw Jones catch!!!
They went back to Willie Mayes’ basket catch (and earlier), they even had one of Otis Nixon’s as a Brave — but not a single catch of Andruw’s made the show.
His star may have fallen even farther than any of us had realized. Or is that just typical of FOX sports?
By Steve from OH
July 14, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this
I agree with Shaun, KJ is a core guy. He’s young, affordable, a great hitter for a 2B, and shows great plate discipline. He’s having a down year this year (compared to last year), but people forget this is only his second full season as a 2B, and really his second full season as a pro. He still has a lot of room to improve. He’s also been one of our most durable and dependable hitters this season (and last season). He’s still OPS+ing 107 this season. Compare that with other young second basemen, such as Orlando Hudson (110), Rickie Weeks (81, 108 last season), Mark Ellis (99), and Brandon Phillips (105 for the last two seasons). KJ had an OPS+ of 117 last season. I left out guys like Utley and Uggla because, well, they’re awesome and rare among any position, let alone second base. I wish I could find a place that compares all second basemen, but I can’t, so don’t think I’m cherry-picking, I just looked up the younger guys that popped into my head. If you’ve got anyone else, please share.
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this
You pick up the tabloids here today expecting to see some warm-and-fuzzy Yankee Stadium All-Star stories, and here’s what’s on the back page of the Daily News:
“We Stink!” in huge letters across a picture of Andy Pettitte wiping his brow beneath his Yankees cap.
Next to the picture it reads: “Pettitte rips Yanks after jays hand them third loss in last four games”
Ah, New York. Gotta love it.
By N8
July 14, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this
scoots
“But be clear on one thing: if the guy is traded, there is zero chance that the offense won’t be worse. Zero. Anybody posting such drivel should be barred from moaning about the offense after he’s gone, if that becomes reality.”
You are correct. (about the offense being worse). But here’s the thing. I think that there is ZERO chance he stays a Brave after this season. So my “griping” that he must be traded, has more to do with getting somebody that can contribute immediately, rather than take the draft picks and play the waiting game for them to develop, after he walks.
Nobody has really mentioned the possibility of this scenario, but maybe Tex and (or) Boras would NEVER allow it to happen. But what about trading him and getting a guy back that doesn’t play 1B and then STILL making a run to sign him as a free agent.
We would have to sacrifice a draft pick to do so. But if we end up in the top half of the first round (which we certainly would without him the rest of the year), the team we signed him from, would get our 2nd round pick with the supplemental pick, NOT our 1st round pick.
I’ve often wondered why teams and players don’t do this more often. Tex could go try and win a ring for the remainder of the season elsewhere, while the Braves acquire a pitcher or LF that can improve the team next year, and the RETURN to Atlanta as a free-agent, bolstering the team even more.
Of course two things would have to happen. One, a team would have to trade for him with the thoughts of JUST wanting him for the stretch (and not demanding he signs an extension - in reality, I don’t see this happening), and the second being, that Tex feels the bridge is burned by the Braves trading him, and (or), falls in love with his new team, if they win the WS or go deep in the post-season, and decides against any possible return.
Far fetched? Sure. But the Indians did it with Lofton in 97. They traded Lofton to the Braves for Grissom and Justice. Then kept Justice around to DH in 98, re-signed Lofton as a free agent, and traded Grissom to the Brewers.
So there is a precedent of it happening before. Be it 10 years ago.
Ultimately, I just don’t see a team giving up too much for Tex, and then letting him walk after the year.
So maybe I’m on crack.
DOB
Is that an “un-written” rule, that a player wouldn’t suggest to a team to trade him to improve the team, and then hint that he’d still be open to a return as a free agent? To me, it seems like something other teams would complain about, and possible hinder the said teams for “dealing” with each other in the future.
Like I said. Just a thought.
By Anders
July 14, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this
DOB
Chipper had quite a steady throng of cameras and microphones in his face, too. Big crowd around him. I heard him answer at least 12 different variations of “What’s the New York stage and Yankee Stadium mean to you?” And at least as many about Shea.
Using your logic, why would anyone outside of Atlanta care how Chipper felt? Do these media people actually think their audiences care what the Braves and their players are doing? Who are all these people and did you tell them to go interview their own players?
BTW- last week on ESPN - Jayson Stark, Tim Kurkjian and Buster Olney all stated that MLB teams were staying away from Barry Bonds because of the ensuing circus that would follow him. You know, the circus you ridiculed me for mentioning. I believe you said ” What circus? In case you didn’t know Anders that media circus left town after he broke the HR record and wasn’t coming back”.
Maybe you want to take this up with some of the national media heavy hitter’s and set them straight too, should you run into them this week.
By Richie
July 14, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this
DOB, are you going to the MLB FanFest at the Javitz Center? If not, you should check it out, it’s a blast. Going made me realize why I liked baseball so much again. And of course you can check out the parade tomorrow, from 40th- 59th streets, on 6th avenue
By BossLady
July 14, 2008 5:18 PM | Link to this
That note on Chipper’s parents about Chipper and McCann is invaluable. Now, I’m about to cry, I better get out of here before someone thinks I am “a weak girl”.
By AGTfan
July 14, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this
madman from NY Anders
Aren’t you being redundant? ;-)
I read through the posts. I must of missed something. I don’t really see what you said that got under DOBs skin so bad.
By N8
July 14, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this
Steve from OH
“As a bench guy, he’s not completely terrible because he’s so versatile, but I would be a little upset if FW signed him to a 1 Million dollar (or more) contract without exploring other options.”
Totally agree with you. I was thinking more along the lines of the bench for THIS YEAR, if the team wasn’t gonna “throw in the towel”. Other than being a non-factor as a CF, Thorman is probably just as much of an option for the bench in the future as being the “Norton” of the team, by that I mean, being versatile enough to be a backup at 1B and in the OF.
By Anders
July 14, 2008 5:23 PM | Link to this
DOB From 11:30 today:
OK, now you can go back to telling us what “drives” the conversation in New York, Anders. Like anyone here give’s a NY rat’s behind what drives the conversation there.
DOBFrom 5:09:
You pick up the tabloids here today expecting to see some warm-and-fuzzy Yankee Stadium All-Star stories, and here’s what’s on the back page of the Daily News:
*“We Stink!” in huge letters across a picture of Andy Pettitte wiping his brow beneath his Yankees cap.
Next to the picture it reads: “Pettitte rips Yanks after jays hand them third loss in last four games”
Ah, New York. Gotta love it.*
So now you do care what drives the conversation in NY? This is definetly the most ironic post of the last month. See you at the awards banquet.
By mitchie-san
July 14, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this
They are reporting that the Braves DID offer Texeria to the Red Sox over at MLBTRADERUMORS.COM There is a link to a Boston Globe article….
By Anders
July 14, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this
AGTfan
I read through the posts. I must of missed something. I don’t really see what you said that got under DOBs skin so bad
Others have said the same thing - well except for the jackals who pounce every time DOB throws verbal raw meat into the blog.
By sixfourthree
July 14, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this
What a darn fine blog. I seldom post but I love reading what DOB and the denizens have to say. This is the most anticipated all star game that I can remember, and just reinforces that it’s a travesty that I never made it to Yankee Stadium.
By McFann ;Ô;
July 14, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this
BossLady Now, I’m about to cry, I better get out of here before someone thinks I am “a weak girl”.
Same here. ; )
By Shamus Thacker
July 14, 2008 5:49 PM | Link to this
Maybe all Hammy needed was a good cry. Wellman is a psychological genius.
BossLady: That note on Chipper’s parents about Chipper and McCann is invaluable. Now, I’m about to cry, I better get out of here before someone thinks I am “a weak girl”.
BossLady, I’ve been boo-hooing ever since reading about Frenchy bawling and squawling all over Wellman. I’m all sobbed-out, yet one helluva man’s man….
By Doc Holliday
July 14, 2008 5:50 PM | Link to this
What have the front office done since the season started to help fill all the voids injuries have left in this team?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Youll have to excuse me, but I just dont see any moves that show any concern from the front office. It looks more like they dont care if fans are happy or not.
Look at the Brewers………..thats not a rich team and they made a move ( not that im saying thats the move we needed), Cubs, etc.
What have the braves done? What are the rumors? Maddux? WTH????
If Norton was the answers……..please tell me what he question was.
What is Gotay doing in this team???
Cant we do better than Corky??? Whats the link between him and the braves……….it look more like if he was a nephew of AL CAPONE and the braves owe him a favor.
Phillies have player on the bench that would make our everyday lineup any day.
How……please just give me a reasonable explanation of how can a team that is 3rd in OBP, 3rd in BA, 4th in Walks, 12th lowest K total can only be 8th in RUN SCORED?
Thats the clearest proof that the players are good………….their team totals are great………well above league average………..
Pitching has been superb…………
Is the inability to score runs really their fault?
How can an offense with guys like Chipper, TEX and Mc as the heart of their lineup cant score runs……….??????
And they are 8th in RS because they score like 20 runs the las 2 days……..they were lower on the food chain.
By TennesseePaul
July 14, 2008 5:55 PM | Link to this
Random: His star may have fallen even farther than any of us had realized. Or is that just typical of FOX sports
I saw merely the highlights from this show as I was out and couldn’t hear the discourse. I did notice the lack of AJ but didn’t think much of it. On Sunday, now back in LA with Dodger fans, I was watching the Dodger game and the inevitable AJ whiff show. He made an amazing grab in center-right. It wasn’t on any highlight reel after the game but every fan I was sitting there with stopped talking and just watched. He was set up shallow as usual and more towards left. The fans responses were, “no way Kemp or Pierre catches that ball”. I agreed. AJ can read a ball like no one else. This skill alone is probably why he isn’t always on the highlight reels. He takes a catch that Edmonds would have had to flop for, or some other guy dance around the field to acquire, look like the mundane and routine. He’s so good he makes his work look boring. But it’s amazing to watch… you just have to pay closer attention to see the brilliance. This year hasn’t really been as incredible as younger years and his production at the plate alone will probably cost him a glove, as wrong as that sounds.
By Franklin Tower
July 14, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this
Who cares about the All-Star game!
Are we buyers or sellers?
By Doc Holliday
July 14, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this
Trading TEX is what this front office is about……. 3 straight years starting from zero.
Pay the guy the money……..we will have it………get some OFs………get rid of JF yesterday.
Get rid of soriano.
Dont resign glavine if he ever comes back……….
A step back a step forward…………that all this organization has being since maddux left.
By adam
July 14, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this
DOB
Have you heard the Braves linked to any other serious trade rumors other than Tex for Youk? Any whispers going on around the Nelson Cruz thing involving the Braves, or is that possibility mostly speculation? And if you had to give a percentage of the likelyhood of a trade for Nady assuming the Braves buy…what would it be?
By adam
July 14, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this
In a perfect world where I was the GM…I think I would probably do the following just to shake things up…DOB and others feel free to comment. First I would acquire Nady from the pirates. Given that he can play first base I would immediately shop Tex….thus we no longer are hindered by the fact that we have to move him somewhere that can give us a MLB ready 1B. I would also pick up Nelson Cruz in the minors from the Rangers. I would try to get either that package, or the Tex trade package to include either a righty or lefty reliever or both. Thus, Tex plus some prospects are gone, but we have Nady who can play the corners in OF and 1B and a very young hot LF Cruz plus some fresh life in the Bullpen. I think that makes the team much stronger than it is now, plus any youngsters that replenish the farm in the Tex trade that we might get. Seems a win win situation, cause even if Cruz doesn’t work out in the Majors, like he didn’t last time, Matt Diaz is still there to play along with Blanco.
By Shamus Thacker
July 14, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this
Doc: How can an offense with guys like Chipper, TEX and Mc as the heart of their lineup cant score runs……….??????
It’s The Tex Hex!
By McFann ;Ô;
July 14, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this
Doc Holliday—
Signing Tavarez was just about the dumbest thing (absolutely not the dumbest, but it’s up there).
I’m just so glad we haven’t seen hide nor hair of him since his first appearance!
Franklin Tower Who care about the All-Star game!
I do!
By Fred
July 14, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this
Anders, Why do you spend so much time criticizing DOB and the comments he writes on this blog? He’s just trying to do his job, which he does very well. Why are you even paying attention to the Braves blog if you aren’t a Braves fan (and don’t even live in ATL)? Please leave the Braves blog for Braves fans and for those who are respectful. There is no need for your negativity on this blog!
By Committee for Blog Decency
July 14, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this
McFann please explain why you attempted to use an obscenity in describing the #8 hitter in the NL All-Star lineup in your July 14, 2008 12:17 PM post:
8: Kosuke F*, CF, Cubs
By McFann ;Ô;
July 14, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this
Committee for Blog Decency
Because his name gets blotted out due to a censor on the blog.
So how’s battin’ practice goin’, Chief? Are you present for that? Just curious.
Thanks!
By doc
July 14, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this
quack quack ,youkilllis in the boston lineup with plenty of people on and plenty of folks to hide behind the prior seasons has power numbers that dont come close to roachy. probably about the same in the field and the folks we traded for have not been able to get into too many games and tex not being able to be labeled as the guy who can carry the team like chipper has or andruw did three years back.
you can feel what you want about roachy just no numbers to back it up. this might be the year youkillis evens it up in if you were to compare the two, but yes youkillus hits for a better avg if that is what you want. not saying roachy is end all just stable and carrying a bigger load without protection around him in pittsburg. also just gave up a ton of prospects to find his short lived replacement.
what ever, if we miss the playoffs both years gamble lost is the only way it can be framed except there will be a few draft picks to go after next year that might make it by 2012.
By Lew
July 14, 2008 6:45 PM | Link to this
Several misconceptions today-
First of all, Youk has a higher BA (by 40 points), OBP and SLG% than Tex. He also has only two less HR and 10 less RBI-not such a drop off, in my opinion. Youk also has a career FLD% of .998 and about the same at third in the 134 ML games he’s played there. I’d say his defense is at the very least a wash with Tex. He may even be better defensively.
The Red Sox can well afford to sign Teixeira to whatever contract he can work out with them-Remember, they paid $50 mil just to talk to a pitcher. That’s half of a five year, $20 mil contract just to negotiate. The Red Sox have what’s left of all the East Coast money after the Yankees.
Kelly Johnson is not going to be moved to first base. I specifically asked the Dude at Spring Training and he looked at me and said-“Where did you hear that? They would NEVER ask me to move to first.” That’s a quote, y’all. It just ain’t gonna happen.
There is absolutely no need to restock the farm system. It ain’t empty, as someone so correctly pointed out earlier. When will some of y’all wake up and realize that with Glavine, Smoltz and Hampton off the books (as they WILL be), we have one of the youngest teams in all of baseball. We need a couple of veterans, NOT more babies.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
July 14, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this
McFann
The Comm for Blog Dec is just some bonehead trying to get under your skin. It’s a reg blogger who changed their name.
Tell them to take a flying leap into a pile of fu-ko-do-me.
By Franklin Tower
July 14, 2008 7:00 PM | Link to this
We need a couple of veterans, NOT more babies.
Yes. We have too many babies: Hampton, Francoeur, and Texiera.
While not quite a baby, Hudson can grow up a bit.
By BA
July 14, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this
Good points (6:45p) Lew. But remember what Anders said last night, the Sox won’t do the trade because it would “upset” Manny. Anders is REALLY smart.
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this
Alright, place your bets on the HR Derby winner. I’m taking Uggla, who takes, in the memorable words of Will Ohman, “an absolute porn hack.”
(I forgot to ask you folks if you saw that quote in the SI story about Uggla. The Crusading Everyman got that quote from Will for SI for that story, and they ended up breaking it out as the money quote.)
By Random
July 14, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this
tkg: “After having Tex here for almost a year now, I’m not convinced he’s a centerpiece guy for a franchise. He can be a valuable part of a franchise, but you don’t pay valuable parts upwards of $20 million per. You pay someone that much money and they’ve got to be a guy that carries you April-October.”
Well said. The rest of your comment was pretty solid, as well.
timmy — good comments on Tesh at 1:04 PM.
westy12 — some comments to you:
“Tex clearly isn’t a team guy.” What makes you say this? — because he did not consult with his teammates before hiring an agent? What does that matter, and how do you know he didn’t? What team was he on when he hired Boras?
“Instead, he chooses the one agent in the sport who will create a constant distraction for himself and all his teammates.” How has Boras created any distractions with Tesh? (Other than apparently distracting you.)
“Instead, he’d rather put his team in a bad spot for the second year in a row, all in the name of squeezing out a few extra millions from a city (NY, Boston) where he’s going to be on a very short leash with the fans because of his ridiculous contract.” How has he put either of his teams in a spot, other than declining their contract offer(s)? Under what obligation was he to accept the only offer available? And how do you know why he declined the offer(s)?
“I would guess he’s going to pay for it.” That’s all you’ve been doin’ — guessin’ and makin’ stuff up.
“Chipper … , a guy that actually values the fans, the city he plays in, the organization, his teammates, etc. A guy who’s willing to make a few personal sacrifices for the good of the franchise. A guy who’s about winning.” Agree with you about Chipper, but that’s because all the good things you’ve written about him here are demonstrably true, whereas all the bad things you’re saying and thinking about Tesh exist only in your imagination.
“Clearly, Tex could care less about these things.” How can you even know that?
“I respect those who disagree” Apparently not, at least not enough to specifically address or answer their specific questions, comments and rebuttals.
“True, you could be Tim Donaghy’s best friend and be a great guy, but it sure raises suspicions.” Can you not grasp the difference between a business relationship and a friendship? Are you as equally obsessed and down on the guy who does Donaghy’s taxes or cleans his pool?
“Still, it does seem a bit selfish to make your teammates (Rangers last year, Braves this year) answer questions all year about your agent and free agency.” How has Tesh done that? This is one of your most inane charges.
“The bottom line, Tex just strikes me … “ — the bottom-line is that you don’t know, you’re simply fabricating charges based on assumptions and speculation, well-leavened with a staggering ignorance of sports, business and life in general.
“And by the way, I can unequivocally say I’d rather take 150 mil to play for a “hometown” team, then employ Boras and make 200 mil for the Yankees.” No, no you really can’t say that at all, ‘cause you’ve never been in the position to make that decision. And neither has Tesh!!!
And the only way you can even make that ridiculous statement is that you know you’ll never be in that position. However, Tesh presumably will be, and you’re already condemning him for a decision he hasn’t made yet, a decision that will be based on factors that you cannot even fathom.
You may not be a hypocrite, but surely, sir, your and idiot.
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 7:12 PM | Link to this
Adam, I like your thinking, for the most part. I would NOT, however, trade Tex for just whatever you could get for him. If you can’t get at least a good young player and a decent prosopect, or good prospect and decent player, I wouldn’t do it. Not unless you fall hopelessly out of it and really believe what you’re getting is better than two draft picks.
But I do like your reasoned, thoughtful approach, rather than just making a bunch of trade suggestions that can’t possibly happen.
By Doc Holliday
July 14, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this
This team will show no heart until the people on top (Cox, Wren, etc) show some balls.
KJ drops a little league bouncer…………go to the bench……instantly……..no more of “WELL, HE ALMOST HAD THE BAD, IT JUST GAVE HIM A TRICKY BOUNCE”……
JF gets his BA below .260 (.250 if you want some flexibility) and you bench him……… thats final. You dont go around making excuses, saying he is your future star or that “WE DONT KNOW WHAT IS WRONG WITH HIM, BUT WE WILL AND WE WILL FIX IT”………. you bench him……..thats final.
Gotay shows you he provides exactly nothing from the bench…………you release him…………thats final.
Corky shows you he is the worst backup catcher in the major offensively and defensively he is nothing but average………..you dump him, you dont keep him without giving any reasonable explanation……….get out of here!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Soriano is a mess………….worse than hampton……….at least they know whats wrong with hampton and they can address the problem………….if they cant figure out whats going on with soriano…………trade him for whatever they give you or send him with a good doctor……….he has not been a factor this year……….nothing but uncertainty, and thats even worse than knowing you cant count on him at all.
What are the following moves for? Jorge Julio and Tavarez??? I bet nobody on this blog (not even the moderator) can give a reasonable explanation to it.
Please tell me which other manager on this league or in his right mind would hit JF 5th? The guy has serious trouble………..He is human, we can all have serious problems in live and/or our jobs. But if thats the situation……….why doing the same thing over and over again?
I know criticizing is easy and doing the jobs is not……….but those things I just mentioned even a teenager could have noticed.
By McFann ;Ô;
July 14, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this
Capt Caveman The Comm for Blog Dec is just some bonehead trying to get under your skin.
Oh yeah. I know.
By SNIPER-69
July 14, 2008 7:15 PM | Link to this
DOB, Anders is right. You kind of stepped in that one. It’s ok though, it happens to the best of us.
By BravesFanChris23
July 14, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this
I’m picking Hamilton to win, but Uggla in a close second. Either one of em will make me happy. I think the big ones in the derby will be them and Berkman.
By Committee for Blog Decency
July 14, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this
an absolute porn hack
Have you no decency, Sir?.
And not fair to describe Anders in that manner.
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this
I have a feeling I know the answer to this question, and it’s not an answer i want to hear: Are they using Chris Berman to “call” this Home Run Derby again tonight?
(Please, oh merciful God, tell me they are not.)
By Doc Holliday
July 14, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this
Lew
Im glad he Braves will never ever make KJ move to 1B. That would be even a worse move than bringing Tavarez here.
UTLEY is a lock for tonights competition.
By DonCoburleone
July 14, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this
Come on DOB you gotta take a lefty in this thing, remember the short porch? I’m going with the lefty that NO ONE is picking - give me JUSTIN MORNEAU!!
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 7:23 PM | Link to this
McFann, you would’ve been proud of your boy today, he’s really made strides in this All-Star interview thing from a couple years ago.
I had a couple of writers come up to me today and tell me how good he was for them. One asked him about Jurrjens, a reporter from Detroit. (I told the guy, you ask him about other people, particularly his pitchers, and McCann is a great quote. He just doesn’t like to talk so much about himself.)
Anyway, I was over at his table when a NY writer asked him something about all the tabloid stuff about A-Rod and what he thought about it. Mac said something like, here in New York anything that’s said is going in a headline, whether it’s accurate or not.
“I’m glad I live in Atlanta,” he said.
By McFann ;Ô;
July 14, 2008 7:27 PM | Link to this
Are they using Chris Berman to “call” this Home Run Derby again tonight?
NO! He’s not…He’s not the guy who yells, “Back, back, BACK!”, sounding like Fred Flintstone when someone asks him to make a bet? (“Bet! Bet bet bet!”)
Puh-LEASE no! I’m with you, Chief.
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 7:28 PM | Link to this
Sniper, meet Anders. Anders, Sniper.
Now run along, children….
(could you two guys possibly be more annoying?)
By McFann ;Ô;
July 14, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this
Doc H. but those things I just mentioned even a teenager could have noticed.
You’re not kidding. ; )
By Lew
July 14, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this
Random-Your 7:09 post was likely the best you’ve ever done. If I were still doing Wurlitzer portraits, I would have awarded you one. However, if you’re interested, email me lewhartman@comcast.net and I’ll send you whatever print of my art you’d like-go to LewHartman.com to choose and contact me along with your real name and snail mail address-if you’re interested.
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 7:31 PM | Link to this
Speaking of the Daily News (and I do love reading the tabs, a guilty pleasure for all of us visitors to the city):
This story’s teased from the front page with “A-Rod, wife talkin’ truce? (see page 5)
Turn inside and the headline: “Boras as a peace agent?”
with subhead: “A-Rod’s ex-rep in Toronto to broker a truce between slugger and Cynthia”
That’s good stuff. Love it.
By Lew
July 14, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this
Committee For Blog Decency-Come on now. We don’t even know if Anders has a Ron Jeremy mustache or not.
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 7:37 PM | Link to this
DonC, you’re probably right. But I’m gonna go against the grain and take Porn Hack.
By TURTSNAP
July 14, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this
My money is on Josh Hamilton tonight, but then again, I have no money :O)
By SNIPER-69
July 14, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this
DOB, c’mon dude ease up. You’re taking this whole blog this too seriously. Lets go guys…….group hug.
By THB
July 14, 2008 7:40 PM | Link to this
I’m picking Josh Hamilton for this thing. My pick for the finals is Josh Hamilton versus Chase Utley.
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this
Speaking of Sports Illustrated, if you haven’t read the cover story on Tim Lincecum from last week, read it. It’s outstanding. Tom Verducci is such a good writer, and he gives a great perspective on pitching mechanics, what makes guys like Mark Prior so injury-prone, and what makes 172-pound Lincecum so unique, how he throws 98 mph and stays healthy with that unusual delivery.
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this
Random, I’ll second Lew’s opinon of your 7:09 post. Very well done.
By Cecil34
July 14, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this
DOB
I know a lot of folks are wanting your input today, but I have a question that you can help with…
What is the Braves’ “master” plan for Clint Sammons?
Obviously at this point, Mac is the man for many years, so how will Sammons contribute to this team?
Do they consider him to be just bench material, starter material, trade material?
I think about him from time to time and it just bothers me that he seems to be the forgotten catcher….
Enjoy NY for me.
By McFann ;Ô;
July 14, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this
DOB—
Thanks for that. I love to read it!
He is great when it comes to talking about his pitchers (and other people). Main reason why I like the man so much. (His stats really help his cause, too. 8 ) )
“I’m glad I live in Atlanta,” he said.
Great line! As Boog would say, “Just classic McCann!”*
: )
By Supes
July 14, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this
DOB looking forward to the article on Chipper and his parents. It’ll be nice to get a different perspective on things happeing there through their point of view.
Did Mac say anything about Huddy or JJJ possibly being snubs? They both were hard luck losers a few times robbing them of better overall records in wins/loses.
Anders, you are not as annoying as Sniper, and you’ve manned up and showed yourself even when the Mets stunk (end of last year, and earlier this season), so I’ve got no problem with any baseball fans blogging here (if they aren’t Braves fans) b/c you don’t come in here and bait others into a “fight” (like Sniper does, and last year the ridiculous guy who would end all of his posts with the madness of HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA). However, why do you insist on practicing verbal judo with DOB? Just let it go and move on man, more to talk about than trading jabs.
By Doc Holliday
July 14, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this
*Lets go guys…….group hug. *
I sense somebody is coming out of the closet.
By KyleH
July 14, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this
I heard the Angels would offer Nick Adenhart for a Matt Holliday or Mark Teixiera deal. Just a word for you who think the braves should trade for prospects. Id like to see him stay cause they have the money, but i thought id let you know.
By Shamus Thacker
July 14, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this
Boras is not a peace agent. A piece, yeah.
By SNIPER-69
July 14, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this
Supes, Those were very kind words you had for Anders. I was moved. Not in the tears kind of way but more in the bowel movement kind…..anyone got a magazine?
By keylargo
July 14, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this
Want to read some differing opinions on Tex being traded to the Sox?
http://www.boston.com/sports/baseball/redsox/extras/extrabases/2008/07/teixeirain_pla.html
Seems like a nut or two up there as well.
By Interested Observer
July 14, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this
I’m taking Ryan Braun in the Derby.
By Lew
July 14, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this
Yeah Snipper-There’s something about your personality that makes one think of smelly bathrooms.
By bruce
July 14, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this
Brent A. Thanks for responding last night on the previous blog with your description of lackluster at-bats. I like it. And I greatly appreciate the length you went to in describing. Apologies accepted.
Actually your description of lackluster at bats helps explains my impression from earlier this season. About 1/4 into this season we seemed to so frequently hit the ball right at an infielder, either line drive or ground out. I wondered whether our scouting reports on pitcher tendencies had deteriorated or if our guys were just failing to adjust. Even tried giving thought to whether some review of stats could reveal the pattern, I am sure it could, but my quick review of the standard stats available on mlb.com had me give up quickly on that effort.
Now with last year Andruw and this year Frenchy seeming to define failure to adjust, (lackluster at-bat) and in so many prominent at-bats, I wondered if I was generalizing my thoughts to the whole team, because of their visibility. Probably Tex’s slow start seemed to feed into this as well, I had not watched Tex in previous years and thought the slow start syndrome was a sad excuse for not making adjustments too.
Also, in recent years I had become so accustomed to seeing Edgar Renteria hit behind the runner, moving them over either sacrifically or with a great hit (and Escobar seemed to start off the year doing the same when in the two hole), and that sucess seemed to sometimes rub off on other players to do the same, or at least rub off on my impression of playing great ball.
Another type of lackluster at bat that I would add is the failure to bunt effectively, mostly pitchers, when it was critical to do this.
I remember thinking it seemed so bad that we should keep Brayan Pena because he is a very good bunter. Sad to even think we should keep a “situational bunter” for a crunch at bat which ended up killing a rally. A September roster thought, but not when 25 on the roster.
Anyway.,.. thanks! and nice job. Bruce
By Hit, Heap, Hit!
July 14, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this
I’m gonna go with Morneau FTW.
By Jeff R
July 14, 2008 8:12 PM | Link to this
The Angels have “hinted at a willingness to build a deal around pitching prospect Nick Adenhart.” This would apparently involve Mark Teixeira or Matt Holliday.
MLBTRadeRumors…
By Hit, Heap, Hit!
July 14, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this
Bowman has an article on Chipper and his dad up on the braves.com site.
By 22oz
July 14, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this
Chris Berman AND Joe Morgan! Do they want my head to explode?
By Lew
July 14, 2008 8:15 PM | Link to this
Let’s see now, Nick Adenhart. You mean the guy who at AAA went 6-9 with a 5.89 ERA, 70K and 44BB with a .304 avg against and a 1.66 WhiP?
Yeah, I’m running to make THAT deal for Tex. How many other “prospects” did they offer along with him?
By McFann ;Ô;
July 14, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this
He just doesn’t like to talk so much about himself.
Meant to comment on that. That I really like!
By Lineups To Go
July 14, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this
Lineup of All-Star Domes
(1) Millenium Dome (London)
(2) Tactile Dome (Exploratorium, San Fran)
(3) Upheaval Dome (Canyonlands NP, Utah)
(4) Dome of the Rock (it rocks! Jerusalem)
(5) Teapot Dome (a scandal and an actual place in Wyoming)
(6) Pleasure Dome (Kubla Khan decreed it!)
(7) UNI Dome (1 size fits all? U. Northern Iowa)
(8) Fookey Dome (the true name can not be spelled on this blog! Moved from Japan to Chicago)
(9) William Windom(e) (escaped from Planet of the Apes!)
By Shamus Thacker
July 14, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this
There’s really no reason to cut down New Yawk fans. If we’uz all New Yawk bred, we’d be just as repulsively obnoxious/disgusting as they are!
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this
Wow, the place is just about packed. For Home Run Derby.
New Yankee Stadium, by the way, is gonna be very, very nice.
By McFann ;Ô;
July 14, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this
Hit, Heap, Hit!—
That was a good article!
By keylargo
July 14, 2008 8:18 PM | Link to this
I’m sorry that link did not work about the RedSox blog. Try this
http://people.boston.com/forums/sports/redsox/onthefrontburner/?item=2226897
By McFann ;Ô;
July 14, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this
DOB—
Great article on Chipper and his parents!
By Tomas
July 14, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Good article, I agree with you that the redsox won’t trade youk for tex. I mean it would be great for the Braves, but they won’t trade one of there more famous players who is still very affordable and young who is having a great season, for a very expensive first baseman who will be a free agent after this season and will command 20 million per year.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
July 14, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this
I’m rooting for Josh Hamilton.
Why not, it’s a feel good day and he’s the feel good story.
He’s got the Karma.
By KC
July 14, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this
As I’ve stated here before, I’m disappointed that BC simply lining up the rotation 1-5 coming out of the break, rather than arranging the rotation to match the competition.
Not that the Nats should be taken for granted. Not at all. But it with a little thoughtful arrangement, the Braves could set it up so that Hudson and Jurrjens both pitch against both Florida and Phili after the break (on regular rest).
BUT, THERE’S GOOD NEWS.
The Marlins and Phillies open up the “second half” in a head to head series, so the first 2 games in that series will likely feature both team’s best 2 starters.
If that’s the case, we’ll likely miss either Olsen or Nalasco in the Florida series, and whichever one of the two we do face will be opposed by Tim Hudson.
Also, we’ll almost certainly miss Hamels up in Phili this time, and if Moyers pitches game 2 against the Marlins, we’ll miss him too.
So the matchups against FLA will probably be:
Hampton vs. Miller
Reyes vs. Volstad
Hudson vs. Nalasco or Olson
Against Phili:
Jurrjens vs. Kendrick
Campillo vs. Eaton
Hampton vs. Happ
Let’s hope Hampton drinks the same water as Mike Gonzalez, and comes out sharp right out of the gate. Because each of his first 2 starts could be the game that decides the Braves chances this season.
Can’t afford to lose any of the first 3 series coming out of the break. MUST go 6-3 against the Nats, Marlins, and Phillies!
By Franklin Tower
July 14, 2008 8:30 PM | Link to this
Braves are lucky they reside in the NL Least.
If they were in the Central Division their chance of making the Playoffs would be virtually zero.
By Jeff R
July 14, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this
Lew, just reporting what I read about ther Adenhart rumor.
By Interested Observer
July 14, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this
Uggla should have brought in Chuck James to pitch to him!
By SNIPER-69
July 14, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this
NEW YORK (TICKER) -After not allowing a run in 15 innings over two starts, New York Mets righthander Mike Pelfrey* was named National League Player of the Week on Monday. Pelfrey extended his winning streak to six games, going eight innings with six hits in Sunday’s 7-0 victory over the Colorado Rockies.
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 8:51 PM | Link to this
Today someone asked Chipper, who has flamed out in a Home Run Derby before, about one of the young hitters in the home run derby.
Chipper said the guy would be fine “if he can shake the nerves. And trust me, there will be some. The only thing I can compare a home run derby to is standing on a public beach butt-naked.” Then he laughed and added, “Not that I’ve done that, but it’s what I imagine it’d be like.”
By McFann =Ô=
July 14, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this
Good grief. We flip it to the Derby, and what are they doing??
Interviewing Not wRight.
That is so not right.
Needless to say, we didn’t continue to watch…
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this
Braves are lucky they reside in the NL Least.
If they were in the Central Division their chance of making the Playoffs would be virtually zeroFranklin Tower
Then what if they resided in the NL West, where no team has a winning record?
By Steve from OH
July 14, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this
Lew, I agree, looking at Adenhart’s overall minor league numbers I can’t say that I’m overly impressed with him, even though a lot of people are very high on him. Baseball America seems to still like him, though. They said (in one of their chats) that they still thought he had great stuff and reminded the guy that asked about him that he was still just 21, but pitching in the Pacific Coast League. I don’t really know what to think, because the prospects people still like him but his numbers are just “ok.”
By Lew
July 14, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this
JeffR-Wasn’t disparaging you Dude, I know you’re just reporting. However, I’m stunned if that’s the Angels’ offer. I would laugh in their face over it. I know someone will run in yelling he’s the #1 prospect in all of baseball according to some esoteric rating service, but those are God Awful AAA numbers. He’s also got a 9.00 ERA after his first twelve ML innings.
By StingerSplash
July 14, 2008 9:02 PM | Link to this
Porn hack? Money “quote”? Hmmm …. off days a little slow? And yet, that’s not the reason I let my subscription to SI lapse.
22oz, Could not agree more. The mere specter of those two boobs (hey, who’s got the Freudian thing going on now, huh?) calling the Derby is enough to make me … not watch. At all. And this, plus three different segments on that Favre guy (he was great in “Swingers”. Oh, wait, that was Favreau. Sorry.) will make up all of SportsCenter tonite. Yippee.
By McFann :Ô:
July 14, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this
SNIPER-69—
That’s cool.
Did you know that Jair Jurrjens was named the NL Player of the Month for June?
By McFann :Ô:
July 14, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this
So who’s catchin’ this Derby, anyway?
By Hit, Heap, Hit!
July 14, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this
As a parent I can only imagine how proud they must be of the Chip.
I just saw a photo on getty of Chipper with his arm around Jeter’s waist. Who knew he was so touchy feely with the guys. : )
By N8
July 14, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this
Lew
“The Red Sox can well afford to sign Teixeira to whatever contract he can work out with them-Remember, they paid $50 mil just to talk to a pitcher. That’s half of a five year, $20 mil contract just to negotiate. The Red Sox have what’s left of all the East Coast money after the Yankees.”
ANYBODY could have spent what the Red Sox did to negotiate with Dice-K. I remember seeing a story on ESPN about the 50 million dollar “price-tag” to negotiate with him.
The dude is from Japan. The Red Sox KNEW that they would sell 50 million dollars worth of Red Sox/Dice K merchandise to Japanese fans alone, and more than likely have.
Whatever team would have signed him, would have been in the same position. But I’ll give you, that the Red Sox were one of a few teams that could “absorb” the hit if it didn’t pan out for them. Then again, the Braves WERE owned by Time Warner (not a company without some cash on their side), when that went down. It was an “investment” plain and simple.
As for the Braves needing veterans vs. babies? I disagree. What they need are good players that can outplay the opponents, and stay healthy enough to be on the field to do so. I could give a crap less what age they are.
DOB
Totally agree with you on the SI article on Lincecum. I read it in the car on my vacation last week and made my 10 year old son read it. GREAT story, and a well written one as well.
As soon as I read that article, I laughed at all of the people that have suggested we trade “so and so” for him. Ain’t happening people. The Giants aren’t letting that guy get away anytime soon. It would take McCann to be part of the package for us to pull him off their roster.
By McFann :Ô:
July 14, 2008 9:33 PM | Link to this
Neight It would take McCann to be part of the package for us to pull him off their roster.
Well, then forget it!
; )
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this
Damn, Josh Hamilton putting on an absolute clinic.
So much for Uggla’s chances.
By jonbrewelberton
July 14, 2008 9:42 PM | Link to this
I was at the homerun derby in Atlanta when Slammin Sammy put on a show…but Ive never…and I mean never felt the chill bumps I’m feeling right now watching Hamilton……and I’m in my freaking living room! This is awesome..chill bumps from a homerun derby..who woulda thunk it…simply amazing!
By A-ville Ranger
July 14, 2008 9:43 PM | Link to this
This Josh Hamilton display is unreal,what amazing snap on his wrist.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
July 14, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this
Hell Yeah JOSH — GIMME 30!!!!!
By Mark T.
July 14, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this
WOW….only 2 words….JOSH HAMILTON!!!!!!!!!
By 18 Wheels of Love
July 14, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
Hamilton is one of those once in a generation players. Kids was destined to do this. Best story in sports int he past 20 years.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
July 14, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
Well like I said - you can’t beat Karma!!
Now let’s see if anyone can catch him.
By Marc
July 14, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this
DOB,
That was way, way more than a clinic.
I’m speechless.
By Supes
July 14, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this
This just in…Josh Hamilton has destroyed the baseball during the 1st round in the HR Derby.
Darn, I know Volquez has the potential to be a 20 game winner for years to come…but how do you trade this guy I’ll never know. A pitcher makes a difference every 5 days, position player can contribute every day. Especially with that bandbox stadium, Reds may regret this trade based on what I’ve seen of this player. He’s got the potential to be Albert P. “scary good” for the next 10 years.
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this
That was amazing. Hamilton might have more natural talent and strength than anyone in the game. Stunning.
N8, so true on Lincecum — they’re building around that guy for a long time. After reading that story, you can’t help but think he’ll do some amazing stuff in his career.
By woogidy
July 14, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this
chill bumps from a homerun derby..who woulda thunk it…simply amazing!
I concur
By chuckw/deadjournalist
July 14, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this
What a show by Josh Hamilton. Wow. But bow about Clay Cousel? That’s a great story right that. For all those great coaches, that was amazing what he did in throwing perfect BP at 71. Good for him.
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this
Just when you think a Home Run Derby, like a Slam Dunk Contest, is hopelessly passe and boring, along comes Josh Hamilton to turn it on its ear and make it a spectacle again.
By Bruce's Pearl
July 14, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this
This just in: ESPN is reporting Josh Hamilton’s BP pitcher is scheduled to see Dr.Jobe next week.
By Bobby's Cox
July 14, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this
My friend works with the Dodgers and he said they’re still looking for a middle of the lineup type bat (probably since AJ sucks). He’s talked to Coletti once or twice, but he gets the impression that they would love to have Tex, and the Dodgers would give the braves Loney and either a couple of prospects or a reliever and a prospect.
I would love to have Loney on this braves team.
I think a trade could be made with the Angels as well for Kotchman, but I’d rather have Loney before Kotchman any day. This team needs a consistent bat or two. The Dodgers, like the Braves, will have a lot of money opening up after this year (and next with AJ’s contract). They’ll be able to afford Tex.
By McTann ☼
July 14, 2008 10:15 PM | Link to this
I’m lounging by the pool and listening to the homerun derby on the radio. I feel like something is missing.
Forget about Josh Hamilton, I wish George Hamilton was on the Braves.
By Bobby's Cox
July 14, 2008 10:16 PM | Link to this
DOB has a point.
In the next sportscenter poll, they should ask fans if they think Bermann should do the HR derby next year. I’d bet 80% of the fans say NO.
By doc
July 14, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this
caveman knows karma.
found a great spot to watch, at a cantina where the sound was cut off. no back, back, back!
geez 518 ft.
By chuckw/deadjournalist
July 14, 2008 10:19 PM | Link to this
DOB -
Be glad you aren’t having to listen to Rick Reilly on ESPN. He’s so annoying, it actually makes me want Joe Morgan to talk.
By Franklin Tower
July 14, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this
Forget about home runs - how about a utility infielder competition?
Last one still sitting on the bench wins!
By Steve from OH
July 14, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s Cox:
If that’s true the first guy I’d be asking for is Kershaw. Anything else is gravy.
By TURTSNAP
July 14, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this
There was a kid that came up in the ’80s with natural talent, but drugs ruined his career. I’ll never forget working at Atlanta Fulton County stadium as an usher and watching Darryl Strawberry taking BP in his rookie year. Let us all hope that Josh Hamilton’s early run in with drugs is behind him now and he can go on to a Superstar career!
By Lou Vales
July 14, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this
Dear David, I always try to get OBJECTIVE views and that is why I will paint questions with a gambling twist because people will not purposefully lose money.
Let’s assume that the Phillies’ pitching woes and Marlins’ youth eventually drags them down. That would still mean that the Marlins MUST pass either The Mets or 2 of these 3 Cubs, Brewers and Cardinals.
Now let’s assume you have been put in a position where you MUST bet the entirety of the O’Brien Net Worth on the proposition that the Braves will make the playoffs or FAILING that you can bet whatever portion you want but be given odds—What would you REALLY need the odds to be BEFORE you would consider betting more than a 1,000 dollars—Your Own Money— that the Braves make the playoffs by either finishing 1st or passing 4 of these 5 Cubs, Brewers, Cards, Phillies Marlins or maybe even Mets —assuming they don’t finish 1st—AND I HATE THE METS!!
Seriously, David, you know they are done because I’m willing to bet you have the GOOD SENSE not to make that bet. Right??
They should trade Texiera and let clubs know BIDDING starts NOW and BEST offer wins with no coming back to sweeten. Now or Never!! I know this is heresy, but Braves must also know that the 36 year old guy with the great stroke and silly nickname—for a 36 year old—and the body of Metheusala(sp??)—-is probably only a year and a half from playing MAYBE 80 games a year SO if you could find an AL team who actually hasn’t read the AJC and knows about his propensity for injury—-Well, to get a haul for Mr. Infirmed might be a very good idea.
By Brad
July 14, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this
DOB Any word on the MRI on yunel’s shoulder? I heard whispers of a rotater cup? Thanks
By Franklin Tower
July 14, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this
…that is why I will paint questions…
Lou Vales is the Basquiat of blog queries!
By Black 47
July 14, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this
Josh Hamilton is Rockin’ the Bronx!
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this
Brad, I’m assuming you mean rotator cuff, not cup. And just curious, where’d you hear those “whispers”?
Because you can just throw that out there, knowing there’s a decent chance he has some sort of rotator cuff injury, since the shoulder’s sore. But just curious if you actually heard that from someone who’d know, or from someone just guessing and throwing it out there in case they hit it right.
By Random
July 14, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this
Lew, DOB —
Thanks — that means a lot to me.
PS: “But what about Spilborghs?” he whined plaintively.
By BA
July 14, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
I had no idea Milton Bradley had a sense of humor
By team manager
July 14, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this
I think a Rotator Cup is one of those things Tex has that he continually has to adjust.
By DAP
July 14, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this
it was awesome to see hamilton do what he did after everything he has battled, and it was cool to hear that he credits his turnaround to Jesus Christ. He still changes lives, folks.
By Brad
July 14, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
DOB This afternoon, Will Carroll, the injury guy from Baseball Prospectus, commented: “The Braves don’t expect good news when Yunel Escobar gets his imaging results back. Whispers are that it’s his rotator cuff.”
By Kentavo
July 14, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
Sounds like Chipper wouldn’t mind being traded to the Yankees.
By Milton Bradley
July 14, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this
I had no idea Milton Bradley had a sense of humor
Say that again and ole Milt will snap yo’ neck!
By Random
July 14, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this
TennesseePaul: “AJ can read a ball like no one else. This skill alone is probably why he isn’t always on the highlight reels. He takes a catch that Edmonds would have had to flop for, or some other guy dance around the field to acquire, look like the mundane and routine. He’s so good he makes his work look boring.”
I hear what you’re saying, and am more than willing to credit your hypothesis, but I’ve still got at least one question:
Before this year, how many times, relatively speaking or somehow equalized over their varying playing times, was Andruw vs Edmonds vs Hunter on the daily/weekly top plays? My gut feeling says Andruw was on more and more often, which makes his total omission from the top 50 catches of the last 50 years curious.
But I could be misremembering (again).
By A-ville Ranger
July 14, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this
After reading Random’s 7:09 post and his comments regarding westy12’s post about Tex and his choice of Boras as an agent.This is how I see it in a nutshell.
I don’t see how so much can be devined from Tex’s choice but I do have negative feelings about any player with Scott as his agent.Is that fair ? I think so.Your friends,wife and hobbies say something about you,so does who you choose to represent you.Tex hired the most greedy person in all of sports and that does color my view of him.
By Random
July 14, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
DAP — spare us.
Please.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
July 14, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
Hamilton’s night is a good synopsis of what baseball is all about.
Great players can make great plays and have record setting nights, but that doesn’t guarantee that the favorites or the most powerful and talented will win.
Because it’s baseball, and it’s not over until it’s over.
Great night for Hamilton and Morneau. (forgot how to spell his name)
By chrisklob
July 14, 2008 11:13 PM | Link to this
…that is why I will paint questions…
*Lou Vales is the Basquiat of blog queries! *
No, I’m sure he meant finger paint.
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this
I find the “let’s vent” Coors Light commercials to be rather grating, almost disturbing. “Is he OK?” she asks? “I think we’ll be venting a little longer,” he replies in a peculiar tone.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
July 14, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this
Random
I have to agree with 10Paul on the argument that AJ’s superior ability would make catches look easier than others would appear.
One of the criteria for the 50 top catches is at what moment in the game did they occur. Wasn’t Otis on there for his wall catch? Just a great play at a great time.
One could also argue that all of AJ’s diving catches in shallow center kept runners off base and got pitchers out of innings before those type of game breaking situations would occur. So just b/c he’s not on the list doesn’t mean it’s a snub so much as just an opinion of different catches and their entertainment value at the time.
He is certainly rated as one of the all-time great defensive center fielders on just about every list.
By Dr. Horrible
July 14, 2008 11:25 PM | Link to this
DOB i completely agree. Also why the hell is he so anxious to get away from his very hot girlfriend for coors light? makes no sense.
By BossLady
July 14, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this
How about that Mr. Council threw about 80 pitches for Josh Hamilton!!!!!!!
We have young pitchers 1/3 his age that can’t make it through 3 or 4 innings sometimes. And..he was throwing strikes
By SaltyDawg
July 14, 2008 11:37 PM | Link to this
A few bloggers here have denigrated Tex for choosing Boras as his agent, but can you truthfully say you wouldn’t if you were a pro ball player? That is just asinine. Whatever you think about Boras as a person (and I don’t think too highly of him myself), you can’t ignore the fact that he routinely gets his players big paydays. If you could have someone negotiate for you next time you are up for a raise at work, would you intentionally choose the 2nd or 3rd most effective agent? No way. This is Tex’s livelihood and you can bet he, like most players, want to make sure they get what they can while they can. Don’t forget, we are talking about millions of dollars on the table. Not to mention I have read that Tex and Boras have a very friendly relationship. Now if he, like Chipper, had grown up as a Braves fan and played here for several years maybe he would be willing to take a pay cut to stay in Atlanta. But he isn’t from here and hasn’t even been here for a year. They guy is going to the highest bidder and I don’t blame him.
By MBPelican
July 14, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this
i have a man crush on Larry Wayne Jones
By Random
July 14, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this
TennesseePaul —
Another thing came to mind — I’d guess that 95+% of the highlighted outfield catches were over-the-fence, HR-robbing catches, which in my mind bespeaks a definite bias for that type of play.
Andruw’s most spectacular catches were pretty much always when he was coming in on the ball, which may have contributed to his being left out in the cold.
Lou Vales: “Dear David, I always try to get OBJECTIVE views and that is why I will paint questions with a gambling twist because people will not purposefully lose money.”
Dam’!!! Is Lou Vales actually Santa3247:
“Hi, I’m Seong-Ho,Yoon living in from Jinhae(Sea of Glass) southkorea now.
*Hey!! Daniel Smith, you were the best the two-dimension over Joseph Reyes who is friend of Babylonian living underground korea through neutron(Resonance Schumann).”
Interested Observer: “Uggla should have brought in Chuck James to pitch to him!”
Hahaha (I mean “LOL”) — pretty funny!
By Chop Chop
July 14, 2008 11:47 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Word on the street is that Coors Light is the real version of Schmitt’s Gay.
I’m just sayin’…
By David O'Brien
July 14, 2008 11:55 PM | Link to this
Dr. Horrible: exactly. Just ain’t right.
Speaking of not right, what’s the deal with cab drivers and their incessant telecommunicating? And I don’t mean talking to the dispatcher. I mean those earpiece phones all these cabbies are wearing now, which enable them to sit there during an entire cab ride, whether it’s 5 minutes or 20 minutes, speaking nonstop to someone at the other end in hushed tones or laughing or whatever.
Some of them must need to drive the cabs all day just to pay for million-minute phone plans and earpiece phones. I think I had one who was wearing a bluetooth phone. Hey Gadabout, stop talking on the phone for 5 minutes, and turn up the A.C. and the radio.
By keylargo
July 14, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this
SaltyDawg
I hope you remember in 2003 when Boras reneged on a verbal agreement and forced the Braves into an arbitration hearing.
That ultimately led to us losing Kevin Milwood as JS was forced to trade him because of the budget. We got Johnny Estrada for Milwood.
Wayne from Utah cited that in 2004 Boras negotiated in bad faith when Maddux signed with the Cubs. I think he said Boras did not give the Braves a last chance to better the Cubs offer as promised.
If you think the Tex situation has not been a source of friction both in the front office and the field I think you are naive.
By rupert
July 14, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this
DOB, random question, do remember how available Hamilton was last winter? there was some brief talk about the braves, but i guess they weren’t interested. Guess a lot of teams would love to have after his first half.
By Random
July 15, 2008 12:01 AM | Link to this
Capt Caveman: “One of the criteria for the 50 top catches is at what moment in the game did they occur.”
That was not my understanding.
They certainly did not mention the game situation for every catch (eg, score, inning/time remaining, etc), only for those that actually did happen to be pivotal catches.
Of course, I could be wrong (again).
By Chop Chop
July 15, 2008 12:03 AM | Link to this
BossLady,
That 71-year-old Clay Counsil guy threw about 80 pitches, but damn, he gave up 35 homers!!!
From analyzing his performance tonight, I’d say he’s lost a lot on his fastball and leaving way too many pitches over the plate. His mechanics are also all screwed up. Who throws the ball like that? Sadly, I just don’t think he’s a real prospect.
However, much like Milton Bradley, Clay Counsil is a real gamer.
By chrisklob
July 15, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this
SaltyDawg, regarding your 11.37…..
I think the problem that most sports fans have with agents like Boras is the fact that they tend to put their client ahead of the team. Or perhaps more accurately put, most of the clients allow Boras to put their own personal wants/needs/desires above those of the prospective team.
We’re talking about tens of millions of dollars, occasionally hundreds of millions of dollars. How much money does one person need for their lifetime? Their children’s lifetimes? Their grandchildren’s?
I will certainly give Boras credit for the fact that he does his job extremely well. Unfortunately, he comes out looking as greedy and slimy as some (not all) of his clients. It is his job after all, so I won’t begrudge him that. However, what percentage of his clients win the WS? I’m not talking about his regular, run-of-the-mill clients, I’m talking about the ones that he’s managed to get overpaid.
That’s what is so refreshing about Chipper and a few other players. They’re willing to take less which allows management to spread the payroll around a bit more with the hopes of building a better team.
By J.D.
July 15, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this
DOB, I’ve always wondered myself who the cabbies are talking to. I mean they are talking all day long on the phone, who the hell could they possibly be talking to?
By David O'Brien
July 15, 2008 12:18 AM | Link to this
That 71-year-old Clay Counsil guy threw about 80 pitches, but damn, he gave up 35 homers!!!Chop Chop
Someone should figure the old dude’s slugging percentage allowed in tonight’s contest.
By Robert (Chipper Is The Best)
July 15, 2008 12:19 AM | Link to this
Well, the Red Sox won’t trade Youklis so that idea can be forgotten. However, the Braves do have several options. We all know about the Angels and Kotchman. The Dodgers could be a possibility. They may be willing to give up James Loney.
The White Sox could entertain a Konerko for Tex deal. The Yankees could be a possibility. Would the Rangers enterain the idea of reacquiring Tex for perhaps David Murphy and Matt Harrison? The Rangers could make a run. Hamilton, Bradley, and Tex all in the same lineup has to at least intrigue the Rangers.
And, the Dbacks are an option but are Connor Jackson or Chad Tracy worth it?
By TennesseePaul
July 15, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this
The Rangers could make a run. Hamilton, Bradley, and Tex all in the same lineup has to at least intrigue the Rangers.
Maybe I missed something, didn’t the Rangers just trade Teixeira to the Braves?
By Random
July 15, 2008 12:32 AM | Link to this
keylargo: “If you think the Tex situation has not been a source of friction both in the front office and the field I think you are naive.”
Define “the Tex situation”, please. If you don’t mind.
Do you mean his slow start?
Do you mean his subsequent inconsistency?
Do you mean his perceived “lack of clutch”?
+++
Or do you mean the fact that no one “in the field”, not even Tex himself, knows whether the Braves will trade him tomorrow or the next day?
Or that he understandably desires to negotiate his next contract with more than just one team, and ha been willing to wait a year or so to do just that?
I haven’t seen anyone here begin to even attempt to defend Boras — bash him all you want.
But shut the frug up about the so-called “Tex situation” — it ain’t his situation; it’s the Braves’. (**Chipper said so.)
If you think the “Tex situation” has been a source of friction both in the front office and the field I think you … should cite your sources.
By SaltyDawg
July 15, 2008 12:35 AM | Link to this
I hope you remember in 2003 when Boras reneged on a verbal agreement and forced the Braves into an arbitration hearing.
Absolutely. And I still think he is a dirty S.O.B. But again, nine times out of 10 he is going to get his client the most money possible. What I would love to see is a few more of his clients circumvent Boras to sign with the team they really want to play for. Unfortunately that doesn’t happen very often.
I think the problem that most sports fans have with agents like Boras is the fact that they tend to put their client ahead of the team. Or perhaps more accurately put, most of the clients allow Boras to put their own personal wants/needs/desires above those of the prospective team.
Agreed. I think if you ask most players today they will give you the whole “it’s a business” line. That is why we as fans take it so hard. Fans are emotionally involved for the love of the game and the team, but the players have a business aspect to think about, which means that they will sometimes (or often) make decisions that are not best for the team/game.
By Chop Chop
July 15, 2008 12:36 AM | Link to this
DOB,
I don’t know how you’d calculate slugging percentage for a home run derby.
We do have to give Counsil credit, though. He got better as the contest went along. He was basically giving up doubles there at the end. I think he found a weakness in Hamilton’s swing and exploited it.
(A fact that I’m sure no AL scouts in the stands were unaware of.)
By Lew
July 15, 2008 12:41 AM | Link to this
Hell with figuring the Old Dude’s slugging percentage, can he have MIke Hampton’s roster spot?
By The Goche
July 15, 2008 12:45 AM | Link to this
RCIB The White Sox could entertain a Konerko for Tex deal. The Yankees could be a possibility. Would the Rangers enterain the idea of reacquiring Tex for perhaps David Murphy and Matt Harrison? The Rangers could make a run
Wow…if only.
I think you might be undervaluing Tex a little. Or if not Tex, I think you are undervaluing 2 draft picks.
Maybe we could trade Tex for a 32 year old 1b putting up a .688 OPS. Or how about for a pitching prospect with a low-rotation ceiling and a hitter putting up a .783 OPS during a career year.
Maybe being a bit too reasonable…
Well at least it’s better than some ridiculous suggestions about trading him to the Yankees, but only if we get Chamberlain, Austin Jackson, and the 1996 World Series trophy.
By Chop Chop
July 15, 2008 12:48 AM | Link to this
Random,
Could you should be a little less indulgent with the boldness? Just cuz Lew and DOB gave you props doesn’t mean that your refutations are any more exciting than, say, those of kirknga. It’s easy to do that all day on here. It’s also boring as all hell. I mean, there are too many corrections to make.
That reminds me of a guy in one of my fantasy leagues a few years back. His thing was ALL CAPS. He would talk about how WONDERFUL that ROB MACKOWIAK was because he HIT SOME HOMERS in a few GAMES or something. I wanted to hit the guy with a SHOVEL, but I just wasn’t bold enough, I s’pose.
By David O'Brien
July 15, 2008 1:09 AM | Link to this
ChrisKlob, it also helps that Chipper has an agent who’s been a good friend since they were kids in Pierson, Fla., a down-to-earth agent who’s a former minor league ballplayer. He helped Chipper rework that contract so that it helped the Braves while giving Chipper a bit more security and lesser (but guaranteed) salary at a time he was plagued by injuries of the DL kind.
Plenty of agents would have told him to keep the old contract as it was, perhaps persuaded Chipper it was a bad idea to give money back because here was such a remote chance he wouldn’t have gotten 450 plate appearances required for each option year to vest and him to collect $15 mill salaries these past couple of seasons, instead of the $11 mill he was paid.
Chipper and his agent understand that with some players, it’s more about overall happiness than simply getting (or keeping) the biggest salary you can at any cost. (Of course, it helps that Chipper’s already made a bank vault of cash during his career. But still….)
By Lou Vales
July 15, 2008 1:09 AM | Link to this
Thank you for the insightful reference, BUT did you notice our intrepid Master of the Blog did not respond to my innocent query. Now maybe AJC has a proscription—NOT prescription==against answering betting questions. So let us say matchsticks—-David, Would you bet 1,000 MATCHSTICKS on Braves making the playoffs—Come Now, I’m talking matchsticks???
By keylargo
July 15, 2008 1:13 AM | Link to this
Random
I’m not really sure what tangent you are going off on with your “define Tex situation”. You did a very good job of listing things involved in the unsettled situation that is the Braves organization.
I’m not going off a on 1500 word diatribe but I simply meant that the Braves front office is going in every direction to plan a projected payroll that could be anywhere from $60 to $120 million next year and of course Tex is at the center of it all.
And the Braves on the field are unsure of who will be where next year and what their futures are. Hardly an environment condusive to putting out ones maximum potential. Again because of Tex and his contract.
Maybe if Tex were any kind of teammate he would realize how many people are in a precarious position because of his actions and take hold of the situation and see if a contract could be negotiated.
Sort of like Alex Rodriquez did.
By Chop Chop
July 15, 2008 1:14 AM | Link to this
Lou Vales,
I’d bet a thousand matchsticks on the Braves not making the playoffs, but only if you bought the matchsticks for me.
(I’m cheap.)
By Lou Vales
July 15, 2008 1:19 AM | Link to this
Dear David, Just thought of something. If we asked very nicely would you come on ESPN1400AM in Spartanburg/Greenville. It is actually a Braves affiliate and one of the hosts, Mark Hauser, was long time radio voice of the Greenville Braves.
I’m a co-host every Wednesday between 3:00-6:00. I believe they have me on for my acerbic wit and propensity for unmitigated objectivity. The other regular is a great gut,Smitty, and we both share a dislike for the Braves. As you know, I have an especially abiding dislike for denizens of the Disabled List—And especially when the tenure approaches unheard of numbers.
We are all very nice and will treat you like royalty—especially me. Expect a call.
By I'm In A Fraternity
July 15, 2008 1:19 AM | Link to this
I find the “let’s vent” Coors Light commercials to be rather grating, almost disturbing. “Is he OK?” she asks? “I think we’ll be venting a little longer,” he replies in a peculiar tone.DOB
Whoa, Dave, you serious brah? Those coms are classic!
By bravos2249
July 15, 2008 1:20 AM | Link to this
Random
Before you go any further about talking about Andruw and the Top 50 catches in terms of his year this year…that special first aired WAY back in April-June ‘07 which means it was taped about April-June ‘07 and voted on earlier that year.
By Lou Vales
July 15, 2008 1:24 AM | Link to this
Dear Chop Chop, You’re nowhere near as CHEAP as the Florida Marlins and they have TWICE the World Series Championships as the Bravos and currently lead them in the standings with a whopping 21.6 Million payroll.
Cheap is not always bad—unless in South Florida and lining up for Early Bird Dinner on Hallandale Beach Blvd at 2:30 PM.
By Marc
July 15, 2008 1:59 AM | Link to this
DOB,
Can you get some comments from Chipper on Josh Hamilton’s prodigious display of power?
Thanks
By BossLady
July 15, 2008 2:30 AM | Link to this
My tribute to Mr. Council is that at his age he threw that many pitches. He had the stamina and accuracy to find the plate.
We all know it was exhibition pitching.
To see the delight on his face and the pride he felt, I was just so happy for him.
Maybe, you should join the folks in Philadelphia who BOO Santa Claus if you don’t think his performance was priceless
By BossLady
July 15, 2008 2:41 AM | Link to this
What I hate about the Coors Light commercial is that he has to lie to his wife to go out and watch a game.
Like the lady that tries to destroy her husband’s fishing rod so he can’t go fishing. But, he goes anyway. LOL
By westy12
July 15, 2008 2:50 AM | Link to this
Okay, Random, I admit it, guilty as charged. I committed the unthinkable offense of offering opinions and predictions on a blog. Who would do such a thing? Oh, you would? Right. I forgot.
Sorry, my opinions don’t come out of juvenile fanboy hero worship, like yours. I see now, you’re right, that makes me a complete idiot. Well done.
Go “Tesh”! You’re the best! I know you’ll be back next year, and the Braves still have a good chance to win the pennant this year! Don’t change a thing! How about that “Hoss”!
(How am I doing? That’s more like the company line around here, right, Random? See, I’m learning. Cut me a little slack though, I’m a straight guy, so this Tesh/Hoss stuff doesn’t come easy for me.)
By vou lales
July 15, 2008 3:36 AM | Link to this
Hey DOB ,
I am an occasional caller on “Puttin’ on the Pitts”, a sports orientated, community access show here in West Bumplump, South Caroliina. There’s some funny fellers on the show. Bill Pitts, who owns Pitts’ Septic Cleaners and Taxidermy, hosts the show with his sidekick Darrel ‘Ducky’ Dunkins. (Everybody gets a real kick outta Ducky. He’s such a card, some folks round here call him ‘The Quack’. When he makes fartin’ sounds, they call it the’ Quack Attack!” LOL!!!!) Anyway, I’d sure like to invite you on the show. It’s on every Wednessday between 3 and 6 PM. I call in about every 15 minutes, so last week Ducky said I was like a co-host. So anyway, if you wanta be on my show, call (562) THE PITT. We’ll all be gentlemen with ya. On my show, that is.
Go Phillys!
Yur Frind, Vou Lales Co-Host of “Puttin’ On the Pitts”
By MadDogsHero
July 15, 2008 3:47 AM | Link to this
If it was, Maddux feels fortunate to have had the opportunity to have had the opportunity to learn from Cox, who he credits with teaching him the utmost importance of every, pitch, at-bat and game.
“It was good to look over there and still see [Cox],” Maddux said. “I still use some of the stuff he used to say because that’s how you’re supposed to play the game.”
By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2009)
July 15, 2008 4:01 AM | Link to this
I’ll offer up some reasons why Bobby Cox is at fault for the Braves losing season thus far.
It took Cox 77 games before he finally put Gregor Blanco in the lead off hole where he belongs. Blanco is hitting right handers .271 BA/ .372 OBP but struggling to hit lefty’s .217 BA/.313 OBP.
Cox still refuses to bench Jeff Francoeur which has and continues to kill many RBI opportunities for the offense. Meanwhile, Brandon Jones languishes in Richmond.
Left handers are beating the snot out of the Braves (14-18) because Cox refuses to utilize the running game to offset it. Josh Anderson has 24 stolen bases between Richmond and Atlanta. The rest of the Braves entire team has 29. Anderson is hitting .322 against lefty’s with an OBP of .362
Anderson and Blanco should be platooning in the lead off spot. Anderson against lefty’s and Blanco against right handers. Cox is an idiot for not figuring this out.
Atlanta is 5-22 in one run games and 0-17 on the road in these one run contests thus far. If the Braves played small ball like everybody else does this would not be happening. Cox is directly to blame for this one.
Brian McCann is the Braves most consistent RBI player behind Mark Teixeira and yet Cox keeps flip flopping the line up based on righty/lefty matchups when McCann should stay in the five hole permanently, behind Tex.
Manny Acosta had an absolutely HORRIFYING month during June. He was 0-3 with an ERA of 9.26 and yet Cox kept running him out to the mound eleven times last month.
Chuck James was run out to the mound by Cox to make five starts, posting an ERA of 8.22 before he was sent packing back to Richmond.
The injury bug is to blame you say? I don’t think so. The St. Louis Cardinals have lost more time and players to injuries than the Braves have this season and yet they are 53-43.
If anyone thinks that losing Smoltz, Glavine and Hampton has had an adverse affect on the pitching, think again. The starters overall are 34-35 with an ERA of 3.97 and 46 quality starts. The current rotation is even better. They are 27-25 with an ERA of 3.51 and 38 quality starts. Suffice to say, the starting pitching has been outstanding and the bullpen has an ERA of 3.22. Cox can’t put the blame there.
Bill James Pythagorean win/loss formula suggests that the Braves should have a record of 52-43 and I agree with that number.
It’s simplistic to say that the Braves can’t win because they can’t score. It’s more direct to say that the Braves can’t score because Bobby Cox refuses to play the game of baseball the right way.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
July 15, 2008 4:28 AM | Link to this
It seems that our local “Coach” is just following in the same footsteps of other fictitious coaches we’ve known.
Coach Hayden Fox - half a buffoon in charge of two complete buffoons in Luther and Dauber
Coach from Cheers - a guy who’s elevator never made it to the top floor
Ted McGinley in Major League 3 - a sarcastic A$$ who had his head in his A$$.
I’m sure if you guys on the blog think about it we can come up with more examples of fake coaches making fools out of themselves.
By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)
July 15, 2008 4:45 AM | Link to this
I mean - really - even the great Greg Maddux who is considered one of the smartest players to ever play the game says that Bobby Cox knows how to play the game.
And then we have our local village idiot - “Coach” - who rails on endlessly about how BC doesn’t know how to play the game the right way.
I know it may shock you but I gotta believe that 99 percent of the blog is going to side with Maddox on this one.
It’s funny that right about the same time of night I have to get up a take a crap, the Village Idiot is talking crap.
Things that make you go — hhhmmm.
By Quack Quack
July 15, 2008 4:49 AM | Link to this
Whether you think he’s going to get better or not, I think the Braves would be better off in the long run trading Tex for two or three good prospects.Shaun
So you’re saying that if you had Youk and I offered you a couple of good prospects(and we all know why they are called prospects) that you would immediately trade him to me? Gee I wish you had Youk.
By Quack Quack
July 15, 2008 4:56 AM | Link to this
very streaky hitter, with a good knowledge of the strike zone but who ironically strikes out a lot because of his long swing.Ernesto
I’m not a big KJ fan, I agree that he is very streaky, he hawalks a good bit witha good eye and Ks a lot too, what is ironic about it? There are dozens of guys who walk a lot and who also strike out a lot, whats so unusual about that?
By Quack Quack
July 15, 2008 5:30 AM | Link to this
Wish we could get Youk for Hex. I honestly don’t believe Hex will be more than a 25/100 guy once he gets the mega contract. I just don’t think he cares enough.Shamus
you know, I’ve been thinking this for quite a while so I guess I’ll just go ahead and say that your fixation on Tex’s deficits is full of crap. Try a new line why don’t you? You know absolutely nothing about the guy, except one statement he once made which you interpreted to mean something that it didn’t. You’re getting to be about as boring as Robert and coach. Dingbat.
By Random
July 15, 2008 6:21 AM | Link to this
westy12: “Okay, Random, I admit it, guilty as charged. I committed the unthinkable offense of offering opinions and predictions on a blog. Who would do such a thing? Oh, you would? Right. I forgot… . Sorry, my opinions don’t come out of juvenile fanboy hero worship.”
Oh, but they do — they do.
The emotional, bitter, unfounded, paranoid opinions, laments and accusations of a juvenile fanboy scorned.
bravos2249: “Random … .
Before you go any further about talking about Andruw and the Top 50 catches in terms of his year this year…that special first aired WAY back in April-June ‘07 which means it was taped about April-June ‘07 and voted on earlier that year.”
Okay, my mistake — I didn’t pick up on that. So, his recent offensive nose-dive was apparently not a factor in his omission. Thanks for the info.
To what do you attribute it — do you more or less concur with Capt Caveman and TennesseePaul?
keylargo: “And the Braves on the field are unsure of who will be where next year and what their futures are. Hardly an environment condusive to putting out ones maximum potential. Again because of Tex and his contract.”
And yet, an environment common to and shared by many other teams every single year. You exaggerate the impact of the uncertainty on players, and demean both their professionalism and love of the game by suggesting they won’t put out this season beacause they — virtually none of them — know where they or their teammates will be next season.
How many other Braves will not be under contract after this season?
Why is it wrong for a player to actually fulfill the terms of his current contract and negotiate a new one with more than just one team?!?
Are you in favor of reviving the Reserve clause?
Your whole post was replete with panicked exaggerations:
“the Braves front office is going in every direction to plan a projected payroll that could be anywhere from $60 to $120 million next year”;
“if Tex were any kind of teammate he would realize how many people are in a precarious position because of his actions”
Get a grip, man — and stop blaming Tex for the business of baseball. This kind of stuff happens every year to virtually every team. It’s called the free market.
And if you are so sure that the “Tex situation” has been a source of friction both in the front office and the field — c’mon, cite your sources.
Chop Chop: “Random, Could you should be a little less indulgent with the boldness?”
We’ll see — I’ll keep your sensitivities in mind in my future comments.
Which of my comments on this blog here offends you the most with its egregiously self-indulgent fonts?
Thanks.
By TommyP
July 15, 2008 6:31 AM | Link to this
Who was it LAST year that blasted me for proclaiming Lincecum’s greatness? There were a couple, I believe.
Hamilton was definitely available in the offseason. However, Cincy was looking for a guy to plug into the rotation immediately. Volquez was one of Texas’ top prospects. What a deal for both teams.
Besides the epic home run display put on by Hamilton, it was nice to see the guy’s reactions throughout the whole event. I believe when the Yankee crowd first chanted “Ham-il-ton”, Josh just grinned at the plate while waiting on the next grapefruit.
As of now, I believe the best deal the Braves could do for Tex is with LA. Loney would be the centerpiece. He’s only 24 years old and controllable for a few years in terms of salary.
The Dodgers are in dire need of a big bat and Ned Colletti is on the hot seat. Not only have his moves been questioned but I believe he recently alluded the Dodgers were strapped for cash which ticked the owner off.
Team desperate for a big bat, GM desperate to save his job….Loney plus 2 prospects for Tex.
By TommyP
July 15, 2008 6:40 AM | Link to this
By the way, will anyone remember Morneau won this thing last night? Hardly. Mr. Hamilton “won” last night.
Just read the Tex rumors printed by The Globe. “Keep us in mind” is what Gammons is reporting the Braves said.
Youk and Hansen. Hansen’s a huge talent that has yet to translate to the majors. Braves probably thinking Roger can straighten him out.
McDowell. Boy he put the Mazzone cries to sleep rather quickly, didn’t he? Phenomenal job, in my opinion.
By Bill
July 15, 2008 6:47 AM | Link to this
I like the trade of Tex to Dodgers for Loney if they included Kershaw. I don’t like trade to Angels for Kotchman and Adenhardt. I believe Adenhardt had surgery on arm or shoulder.
By Richie
July 15, 2008 7:04 AM | Link to this
Just think Hamilton was a Rule 5er lst year, all because of his past. And Brandon Phillips was as well in 06. We along with every team except the Reds couldve had both of them. No imagine us having Hamilton and Phillips in our lineup…wow, that would have been something. But I am certain many other teams have said the same thing
By David O'Brien
July 15, 2008 7:52 AM | Link to this
David, Would you bet 1,000 MATCHSTICKS on Braves making the playoffs—Come Now, I’m talking matchsticks???Lou Vales
No, I wouldn’t.
(just saw this e-mai; as you might imagine, I eventually fell asleep last night, after the caffeine was overtaken by sleep deprivation.)
By Shaun
July 15, 2008 8:21 AM | Link to this
“Whether you think he’s going to get better or not, I think the Braves would be better off in the long run trading Tex for two or three good prospects.” -Shaun
So you’re saying that if you had Youk and I offered you a couple of good prospects(and we all know why they are called prospects) that you would immediately trade him to me? Gee I wish you had Youk.
No. I think the Braves could get a serviceable firstbaseman and a good prospect or two, maybe a great prospect.
And Youk for a couple of prospects? It would depend on the prospects. Youk isn’t exactly a young player and isn’t exactly an upper-echelon player. So if one of those prospects had a pretty good shot at becoming upper-echelon at his position and the other could become a solid major leaguer, I would do it at this point in Youk’s career.
By Shaun
July 15, 2008 8:23 AM | Link to this
“Whether you think he’s going to get better or not, I think the Braves would be better off in the long run trading Tex for two or three good prospects.” -Shaun
So you’re saying that if you had Youk and I offered you a couple of good prospects(and we all know why they are called prospects) that you would immediately trade him to me? Gee I wish you had Youk.
No. I think the Braves could get a serviceable firstbaseman and a good prospect or two, maybe a great prospect.
And Youk for a couple of prospects? It would depend on the prospects. Youk isn’t exactly a young player and isn’t exactly an upper-echelon player. So if one of those prospects had a pretty good shot at becoming upper-echelon at his position and the other could become a solid major leaguer, I would do it at this point in Youk’s career.
Also, it would depend on my place in the standings. If I were the Red Sox, I wouldn’t trade Youk for prospects.
Sorry for the long-winded answer. It’s just life isn’t as simple as an “I would” or an “I wouldn’t.”
By 22oz
July 15, 2008 8:36 AM | Link to this
The Home Run Derby and the All Star Game are two of the biggest days in sports & i wish that we didn’t have to watch them be broadcast be 2 of the worst announcing teams ever. Chris Berman and Joe Morgan followed by Buck and McCarver? shoot me.
By Richie
July 15, 2008 8:48 AM | Link to this
DOB, make sure you go to Crown Donut on 161st. Definitley a good eat and you’ll probably run into Mike Francesesa while you are there. He regularly frequents the place as do I.
By Shaun
July 15, 2008 8:51 AM | Link to this
Anyone else think the homerun derby is just too darn long?
We inevitably see one guy have an amazing round and then everything else is uninteresting.
They should have more players with just one round or shorter rounds or fewer players.
After a while it’s not that amazing to see major leaguers hit homeruns. The cool part is when you see a guy get on a roll or when you see the 514-foot blasts. After the first round guys get tired and it the derby gets old.
By Shaun
July 15, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this
22oz, I like Joe Buck. But I agree with you on the rest of those guys.
Chris “I’m important and you’re not” Berman
Joe “I played and you didn’t” Morgan
Tim “I can afford great hair coloring” McCarver
By David O'Brien
July 15, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this
NEW BLOG IS UP
By McFann :Ô:
July 15, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this
DOB—
Peculiar indeed. I can’t stand that commercial!
So were Chipper and McCann even there last night? I kept looking for them, and didn’t see ‘em anywhere.
BTW—(Meant to ask you this yesterday, Chief.) How’s McCann’s arm? Is it still wrapped up?
Thanks!
By Chop Chop
July 15, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this
Random,
I’m just happy you quoted my typo. I assure you that my comment was purely made ingest.
BossLady,
I’m still not impressed with the old guy’s fastball. I assure you that this comment was also made in jest.
(Random, notice how I spelled “in jest” correctly in my response to BossLady? That’s really funny stuff. You know, because I pointed out your quote of a sentence of mine that contains a typo? As you can see, I’m trying to work on my sense of humor.)
Coming up next, I plan on trying not to explain jokes!
(Wish me luck.)
By Congrats Chipper & Mac
July 15, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this
I was just about to ask the same thing, McFann. I didn’t see either of them either. I also didn’t hear Utley’s expletive.
By timmy
July 15, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this
Blue Jays Ace Roy Halladay is finally growing frustrated with the monotony of inconsistent ball in Toronto. He may ask out of Toronto. I would suggest the Braves contact them, in the offseason and see what it takes to grab him from them. He isn’t going to move mid-season, just won’t happen. And I think he is a 10/5 guy now as well. But, Halladay is a young ace we can use and team up with Hudson and JJJ. DOB, you can look it up on Foxsports MLB Rumors as well as the Toronto Star.
By Frank
July 15, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this
Hi DOB….I’m a Braves fan from Kansas and have been for a long time.
Now my $.02 is….the Braves would be VERY dumb not to TRY to resign Tex.
I mean, they haven’t had a decent 1st baseman SINCE Freddy McGriff or Big Cat even Sidster…..Lol.
Yes, I know…pitching wins championships…..BUT look at the times we were in the playoffs and WS…we had a quality 1st baseman. Not some lowly dude playing 1st base.
On a side note….I know a lot of the other bloogers will probably like to jump me for this…..but I think it would be awesome deal to trade for Maddog (Maddux).
He’s another Glavine. He can eat some innings, bring some veteran leadership and relive some innings from the pen.
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