Braves

By Bobby

July 15, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this

FIRST

By McFann :Ô:

July 15, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

So were Chipper and McCann even there last night? I kept looking for them, and didn’t see ‘em anywhere.

BTW, DOB—(Meant to ask you this yesterday.) How’s McCann’s arm? Is it still wrapped up?

Thanks!

By Shaun

July 15, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

DOB, that’s interesting about the BBWAA and the Players’ Union flap over awards voting.

Do you think there would every come a time when the writers refuse to give awards until the union agrees?

I also heard that there is an FBI investigation of teams pocketing bonuses of Latin American players. If the baseball players’ union actually cared, they would provide representation to Latin American players who sign with big league clubs to make sure they get the money they’re promised. But it seems to me the baseball players’ union is the most useless union in the world.

…

I’ve been to Yankee Stadium and sat in the bleacher seats. They are very far away from the action because you are behind the bullpens. And you can’t even leave that area if your seats are in that area; they won’t allow it. I was somewhat disappointed in it.

It’s special because you see the facade and think about Ruth, Mantle, Gehrig, DiMaggio, etc. But it also just feels like an old building. It’s not like Fenway, where you smell the grills around the park and you walk in and feel like you just stepped in to a work of art. Going to Fenway and the surrounding area is like going to a college football game in the south. It’s an atmosphere you live for if you’re a baseball fan. Yankee Stadium just doesn’t quite have that same feel.

By Chop Chop

July 15, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

Really nice story over on ESPN.com’s E-Ticket about Our Lady of Perpetual Help Home near Turner Field. Here’s the link for those that want to check it out:

Making Time Stand Still by Eric Neel

By Guggie

July 15, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

Favorite Yankee Stadium moment was when I was sitting in the bleacher seats —- a young Tiger fan was there in all his attire. He was there with Grandma and the rest of the family. The entire section was ribbing on him for the whole game. At one point someone took his hat and it was tossed around the entire section before it was returned. It was all in good fun.

I am a life long Braves fan and have had season seats for 17 years. I loved the intensity that Yankees’ fans brought to a mid-July nothing game vs. the Tigers in the mid-90’s.

I hate them to death but I respect their fans.

By Coach ( Lets Go Braves In 2010 ??????)

July 15, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

Um, I’m going way out on a limb by predicting the A.L. to win tonight. By the way, If baseball were a religion, tearing Yankee Stadium down would be a sin.

By KyleH

July 15, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

Any word on Tex. First I heard the whole Tex for Youk rumor and then I heard the Angels were interested and would offer Adenhart. I dont think the Braves will get much for him. They made a committment last year when the “gave up the farm” to get him. Now the have to keep him and sign him no matter what it takes or this will be a really bad move for the braves.

By Random

July 15, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

Shaun —

Here’s Joe Posnanski’s 16 Nov 07 take on the BBWAA awards and potential conflicts of interest, and here is his 10 Dec 07 interview of Bob Dutton, then BBWAA president, which also touches on the issue.

Cheers!

(If anyone finds some more recent takes on it, please let us know. Thanks.)

By KyleH

July 15, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

Any word on Tex. I heard the Tex for Youk rumor and that the Angels were interested and would offer Adenhart. I dont think the Braves will get good value for him which is why they should keep him and be sure to sign him at all cost. The Braves made a commitment last year when they “gave up the farm” to him. The Braves have to sign him or this is a really bad move by management.

By Shaun

July 15, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

KyleH, the Braves traded for Tex last season to make a run at a title while Smoltz, Chipper, etc. were here and productive. At worst the Braves get draft picks for Tex. At best, they can get some very good young players and a serviceable major league firstbaseman. Plus they can use the money that he would cost on other pieces. So it’s rather simplistic to view it as a bad move if the Braves don’t keep him.

By nolie

July 15, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

I also heard that there is an FBI investigation of teams pocketing bonuses of Latin American players. If the baseball players’ union actually cared, they would provide representation to Latin American players who sign with big league clubs to make sure they get the money they’re promised. But it seems to me the baseball players’ union is the most useless union in the world.Shaun

yeah I posted an article on it here two or three days ago. The Nats GM and their Caribbean scout are both main interests in the investigation

By Shaun

July 15, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this

Random, interesting stuff.

One solution could be to make the voting and the tabulations anonymous, and only the rankings public. Don’t know if this would help too much. Say you have a player having a decent but not great season and he finishes 20th out of 22 in an award vote and his hometown guy has written favorable columns about him.

Or maybe a compromise. Maybe only allow incentives if a player finished in the top three or even only if he wins an award. This would make a conspiracy less likely. It would have to be a pretty intricate conspiracy in order for that many writers to be in on it. Not saying it would solve the problem of all appearances of impropriety, but it would help.

I’m sure such solutions or similar ones have been thought through.

By Random

July 15, 2008 10:23 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!!!

Yours are the emotional, bitter, unfounded, unreasoned and 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 evidently not a factor in his omission. Thanks for the info.

To what do you attribute it then — 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 not only exaggerate the impact of the uncertainty on players, you also demean both their professionalism and their love of the game by suggesting they won’t “put out” their best efforts this season simply because they — virtually none of them — don’t know where they or their teammates will be next season.

How many other Braves will not be under contract after this season? How many of the rest don’t have no-trade clauses?

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 actually in favor of reinstating the Reserve clause in all MLB/MiLB contracts?

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 be a little less indulgent with the boldness?”

We’ll see — I’ll keep your sensitivities in mind in my future comments, and seek to curtail to some extent at least my egregiously self-indulgent fonts.

;-§)

By Anders

July 15, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this

Well folks - absolutely spectacular day here in NYC. Today NYC treats all the HOF’ers and this years All Stars to see what it feels like to get the NYC treatment as champions. They’re expecting over a million people to the parade. I suggest you tune in if you can, should be awesome. I’ll be the guy in the Mets hat and blue shirt.

Hey DOB. I’ll be in the lobby of The Plaza between 4 and 5 today having cocktails with some “clients” today if you want to pop in for a cold one. You can check my ID to validate my NY residency. Then we can take the subway together over to the Stadium. I’ll treat to both.

By Shaun

July 15, 2008 10:26 AM | Link to this

nolie, I guess the union is not completely useless. They help star players. That’s about it.

By Doc Holliday

July 15, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

Shaun

Letting TEX go is a step backwards………I dont see how can braves even think about letting go the guy with the most RBI in this team…………not in a team that has no ability to score runs.

If Braves had a team like the phillies……..I wouldnt mind letting TEX go. But as bad as we are scoring runs, I do mind. They will once again start from 0. Then they sign some big bat that wont be able to do the job by himself (as is the case with TEX right now). Learn the lesson. We need another bat. The thinking should not be………just replace TEX, but do something to add more offense.

By ernesto

July 15, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

I hope they burn Heap as a Pinch Hitter, Ideally, he jacks one, has a lifetime memory, and then sits on the bench and rests.

Don’t need him getting in ANY extra innings behind the plate this year.

They could pull Chipper after two or three innings and that would be just fine with me too.

By DAP

July 15, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

the tuff thing about trading tex is that it will be hard to get a major league player for him. since we would target teams that are right on the edge of winning, they might not want to break up what they have in order to add tex, meaning they wold only give us minor leaguers.

i would love to get james loney, but i wouldnt do it if i were the dodgers. tex would be an upgrade over loney for the remainer of the year, but they might then lose tex, and not have loney either, nd young 1st baseman who is going to be really good. anyways, loney is THE guy i want to get for tex…i just hope the braves get as much as they can for him.

By lewie

July 15, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

i really want to trade tex for loney….i’ve put in on here many a time but it seems the best fit.

then you get a prospect or two with loney and go out and get nady (i’m assuming he’d cost us one of our pitchers) or bay and our lineup would be stacked

By McFann :Ô:

July 15, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this

Chop Chop—

Thank you so much for the link! Our Lady of Perpetual Help is not far from our Church. In fact, one of our priests just left us to be the chaplain over there.

Very nice article indeed! Thank you again!

By Marietta Dawg

July 15, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

I’ve been to Yankee stadium one time. They happened to be playing the Cleveland Indians and it was a couple days after that had traded for John Rocker. It was back in 2001 and I thought it was funny that I’m from Atlanta and I saw John Rocker pitch for the Indians in Yankee stadium and of course he was booed. My only regret is that I didn’t have time during the day to take a tour of the stadium.

I’ve been following Josh Hamilton all season and last night was his introduction to the rest of the baseball nation. He was awesome. How bout we ship Tex back to the Rangers for Hamilton?

DOB Did you get a chance to chat w/ Josh? I know he’s from NC and I also heard he’d like to play for the Mets, but any chance he might like to play for the Braves in the future? We could use his bat.

Good luck to Chipper and McCann!

By McFann :Ô:

July 15, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

Ernesto I hope they burn Heap as a Pinch Hitter, Ideally, he jacks one, has a lifetime memory, and then sits on the bench and rests.

I agree! That would be GREAT!

The NL has got to win this year! (And that would be the perfect way to do it!)

Hurdle shoulda made him the DH. Like you said, don’t wanna give him too many extra innings behind the plate. At his current pace, he’s set to start about 58 of the remaining 67 games. (I think I calculated that right…)

By MGL

July 15, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

I really wonder about how other clubs really value Tex and whether they believe all this $23 Million for 8-10 years that Boras is spouting. Consider the following rankings at the break for Tex vs all MLB batting qualifiers (3.1 PA/game). After the rank are the Braves ranked above him in that category.

BA 98th (Chipper, McCann, Escobar, Kelly)

OBP 41st (Chipper, McCann)

SLG Tie 51st (Chipper, McCann)

Walks Tie 14th (Chipper)

Hits Tie 63rd (Chipper, McCann, Escobar)

Doubles Tie 32nd (McCann)

HR Tie 33rd (Chipper, McCann)

I know that he normally does better in the second half, but it is a 162 game season. He is not leading the Braves in any significant offensive category. I just wonder what other teams think of his value, either now, or as a FA.

By McFann :Ô:

July 15, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

Before the Derby: Hit, Heap, Hit! I’m gonna go with Morneau

Nice going!

By Daybed Wagmoe

July 15, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

I’ve never been to Yankee Stadium, though I’m moving up to NY in about a month and plan to see one of the games at the end of August or their one homestand in September. Why would the schedule-makers plan for the Yankees to play only ten games at home in September during the final month of their stadium’s existence? I mean, I know that it’s to make up for other months like July, when they play only seven away games, but it seems like it would make more sense to have more home games in September. Oh well.

DOB - I’m sure Bud Selig will get asked about the policy on the significance of the All-Star Game and WS home-field advantage and possibly changing it…I’ll look forward to reading about what he says about that one.

By Shaun

July 15, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

Doc Holliday, right. If they want to contend next season, they’ll need to add more offense after they lose Tex.

But Tex is likely gone anyway. At what price do you want them to keep Tex? He’s not likely to be worth what he and his agent are asking, and he’s going to be very expensive and require a long commitment. So do you really want to set the franchise back significantly for one player?

I think the Braves need to be thinking about 2010-2013. That’s when McCann, Francoeur, Escobar, Johnson, Blanco, Lillibridge, Brandon Jones, Jurrjens, Reyes and Morton will be in their primes; Boyer and Chuck James will still be pretty young; and players like Jason Heyward and Schafer, Gorkys Hernandez could be ready to contribute.

Not that they should ignore trying to contend next season at all but their focus should be on getting players that will be helpful in that 2010-2013 range.

If a franchise wants to make a big push, sometimes it may have to deal with possibly taking a step or two back. But I’d rather see a dynasty during the early part of the next decade than risk it all by overspending and over-committing on players like Mark Teixeira.

By westy12

July 15, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this

Random,

Wasn’t the moral of your previous post that we shouldn’t make character judgments about people we haven’t met? (By the way, I filtered out the personal attacks to arrive at this moral.) That philosophy can be applied pretty selectively, huh?

No, my opinion about “Tesh” has nothing to do with the fact that I’m a Braves fan. Because my thoughts are the same about A-Rod, JD Drew, and all the other prototypical Boras clients.

Sure, everyone has the right to make every last dollar they can get. But it’s naive to think the Boras association doesn’t come with a hit to your reputation. Your “Tesh” is a guy that’s about money, I get that. He doesn’t care about which uniform he wears, or his teammates, or winning, or any of that stuff. For Tesh, the name of the game is: who’s going to win the artificial bidding war created by his agent? Because for “Tesh”, fair market value (150 mil) just isn’t enough.

You’re right, Random, your boy has every right to hold out for the highest bidder. But let’s not pretend these guys are good teammates, and that most fans don’t see Team Boras as selfish, greedy, and bad for baseball. I mean, even A-Rod, in all his spineless greatness, realized that money-at-all-costs isn’t good for team chemistry and public perception.

But don’t let the facts get in the way of your fandom, Random. By all means, keep trying to convince yourself otherwise about your boy Tesh.

By RRR

July 15, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this

I’ve been to the Stadium OB: several times. Many more to Shea though, since I’m a Braves fan for over forty years. But, I was a Yanks fan as a kid growing up in North Jersey right across the river from the city. Clete Boyer was my favorite player as a kid, and when he was traded to the Braves, so was I ;). Anyway, I was there before the renovations, and yeah, it’s a special place. I’ve seen both baseball and football games there, but less than ten and all as a kid, so the memories have faded. Shea I would visit every year to watch the Braves though, and I saw the Who there, as well. You’d have loved that. The Clash opened for them. I have many memories of Shea, and all of them more recent…at least until I moved to SWFla ten years ago, and, as many of you who’ve been there know: it’s a DUMP.

ps: GREAT article on Chipper and his parents OB. I buzzed it.

By DAP

July 15, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

random about my post last night, i wont say anything else about it, because i try to follow the rules of the blog, but you cant talk about josh hamilton’s story without talking about Jesus. heres an ESPN article for over a year ago about him. and the story is even better knowing what josh did last night.

By BT

July 15, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this

Chop Chop

Thank you. What a great story and life lesson.

By nate

July 15, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

Tex puts up good numbers. but is trying to decide if he should be traded the Braves need to ask: Are we a better teams with him at first? Did the Braves average more runs per games after Tex arrived last year? Are the Braves averaging more runs per game this year than last year? Did the overall winning percentage increase when Tex was added to the lineup?

I haven’t crunched the number. I don’t know what the answers are, but it seems to me he’s managed to put up good numbers without really improving the team.

Right now it really doesn’t look like any of the prospects the Braves gave up to get Tex are gonna be impact players. So the trade to get him looks like a wash. But the Braves can still flip Tex for something useful, and that’s where this whole thing may really pay dividends.

By tyyosh

July 15, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

I went to Yankee stadium once in 1981 while interning in lower NY State. Promising rookie Dave Righetti pitched. Wow that’s when you know the years are going by.

The internet is interesting as an equalizer, where people feel free to insult and talk down to each other, etc. In the “real” world, if we all worked in the same place, I am guessing that some of the “insultees” are people we would be working for - several levels down maybe.

By KyleH

July 15, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this

Shaun Ive gotta agree with Doc on this one. Its great that the braves may have $60+M to spend in the offseason but if we dont put it in Tex then where does it go. Sure we could get Ben Sheet but, again, pitching is not our problem. Dispite a “bad” year, Tex is leading this team in RBIs. The Braves cant be afraid to overspend because with the payroll the way it is and a possible payroll increase thew braves can do it. As much as i hate Boras, Baseball’s a business and Tex is the best available player and will be overpayed due to the competition for his services. Trust me, Tex needs to stay in Atlanta because by trading for Tex last year at high value and trading him this year at low value makes no sense when the braves have enough to keep him and to still have a good bit left to answer other problems.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

Just got out out of the BBWAA meeting with union officials over at the players assoc. headquarters. Pretty impressive offices they have, with a sweeping view of the “30 Rock” building and that area.

Just eight of us sitting around a glass table for 90 minutes or so, with Don Fehr and Gene Orza seated at opposite ends of the table.

We all agreed everything said in there was strictly off the record, so I can’t share anything. But it was quite interesting, to say the least. And it becomes clear quite quickly why Fehr has the reputation he does for being a master negotiator….

McFann, I didn’t see McCann without his sleeves over the arm yesterday, so don’t know if it’s wrapped. Can tell you he had two of the nastiest bruises you’ll see, one on each arm, a few days ago.

By Bobby's Cox

July 15, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

lewie and DAP

i agree. I’d rather have Loney as well. He’d come cheap over the next couple of seasons, and the team could go out and sign a an outfield power bat, some relief, and lock up Escobar to a long term deal.

Only problem is, there aren’t a lot of free agent OF available in the offseason. The best player without a club option is probably Ibanez, and that would be yet another left handed bat in the lineup. The best 1B free agents after this year (besides Tex), are probably Nomar, and Sean Casey if the Braves want to go that route.

To get a formidable first baseman and a right-handed outfield power bat, it looks like it would take 2 separate trades. The Dodgers could trade Loney and a couple of prospects (Kershaw i would imagine is untradeable), while the braves could put a package together for a Bay or Nady. I wonder what it would take to get Bay or Nady, maybe a KJ and more pitching prospects.

If you look at what’s available on the free agent market after this season, and what the braves need (1 starter, 1 reliever, another power bat be it a 1B and/or an OF), it looks like Tex should definitely be traded to fill some holes and it would definitely be for an OF or 1B replacement as there are some free agent pitching options.

Lowe, Sabbathia, Sheets, Garland, Oliver Perez, Kip Wells, will head the SP free agent list (Hampton, Pedro Martinez, Randy Johnson, Kenny Rogers, Livan Hernandez are older short-term options).

Francisco Rodriguez, Kerry Wood, Todd Jones, Isringhausen, Affeldt, Dan Wheeler, Ohman, Farnsworth, will head the RP signings. I really like Marte, but he’s got a team option for ‘09.

By BravesFanInRockies

July 15, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

Troy Renck of The Denver Post says Holliday and Tex are the two top bats that might be available at the deadline and no one else is close.

I’m not at all sure the Rox will trade Holliday. Unless they’re absolutely blown away with an offer before July 31 I see them waiting til the offseason when a real bidding war would ensue. It’s tough to go from NL champ to fire sale in less than a year, especially when you’re not slashing payroll, as the Marlins did twice.

That makes Tex the top target. I’d like Loney or Kotchman (with other pieces involved) if Youk cannot be had.

And here’s another possibility for discussion’s sake, whether Tex goes for a ML ready guy or not —what about Ty Wigginton for Ohman or Campillo (again perhaps with other lesser pieces involved)?

Wiggy is destroying LH pitching (OPS over 1.000). He could play first or third or corner OF spots. You could find a place for him in the lineup every day, esp. if Tex were traded (he’d be your regular 1B, or at least part of a platoon). He’s insurance if Hoss goes down.

Thoughts?

By Shaun

July 15, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

KyleH, the Braves should not offer Tex a deal that is going to make him one of baseball’s highest-paid players in that 2010-2013 range that I talked about in the previous post, when all those young players will be in their prime and younger ones will be ready to contribute in the majors.

It would be best to use that “extra” money on a lot of relatively inexpensive, short-term deals to a lot of quality players so that the Braves could possibly contend next year while they wait for the kids to develop and reach their primes so that they can make a big-time run. And save the rest of that money for right before they are ready to make that big-time run and make some free agent moves to fill holes at that point.

I don’t think it’s wise for the Braves to make a huge commitment and give a ridiculous sum of money to a player who will not be worth that kind of money and commitment by the time they are ready to make that big run with all those players who are now in their early-to-mid 20s.

By Congrats Chipper & Mac

July 15, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

McFann After seeing Josh Hamilton own the HRD but not take home the trophy, I wish I had been wrong with my winner pick.

DOB Were Heap and Chipper at the HRD? I kept looking for them in the crowd of grey jerseys but I didn’t see them.

By BostonBravesGirl

July 15, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

I lived in New York in 1996 (back when I was NYBravesGirl) and vividly remember the night the Braves lost the series to the Yanks. It was warm enough to have the windows open in most Brooklyn Heights apartments (right near the Brooklyn Bridge), and with the last out, Brooklyn Heights (and the rest of the city) just erupted. We could hear screaming and yelling from all directions, and my husband swore he could hear the crowds at the stadium. That wasn’t really humanly possible but, in his misery, he believed it.

Once Wade Boggs started riding the horse around Yankee Stadium, I had to turn off the TV, turn on the window-unit AC in the bedroom and put the covers over my head. I never made it up to Yankee Stadium during the time I lived in New York; that night ruined the place for me.

By DAP

July 15, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

Bobby’s Cox Only problem is, there aren’t a lot of free agent OF available in the offseason. The best player without a club option is probably Ibanez,

milton bradley is a free agent after this year, and he plays all three outfield positions (though he is DHing now). i also think he would come very close to matching tex’s production batting 4th for the braves. there are some concerns with his health and his temper, but i think the braves need to try and sign him.

KyleH the braves are going to have enough money if they let tex go to sign bradley to replace him and fill other holes. the braves do NOT need to overspend on tex. and as good as our pitching is, getting better is always desirable. i think they will be in the mix to sign sheets as well, and i think they will sign at least one free angent starter, even if its just an innings eater #5 pitcher.

this will be a fun offseason, because the braves are going to be major players. they have alot of money, and alot of prospects and young players.

By TexasBrave

July 15, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this

DOB yesterday you mentioned that New Yankee Stadium will be very nice, does that mean you have had the opportunity to tour the new yard? If so do you have any first impressions? Did they attempt to keep it in the mold of old Yankee Stadium?

By Shaun

July 15, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

Bobby’s Cox, I think the organization has to take a bigger-picture approach. Bay and Nady are both three years older than Kelly Johnson. Why would you give up Johnson and pitching prospects for those players?

The Braves have to resist over-spending on players in order to shore up for when McCann, Francoeur, Escobar, Johnson, et al. are in their primes and Heyward and Schafer, et al are ready to contribute. Because teams rarely if ever build great teams through free agency and trades.

The organization has to look at the next best opportunity to make a serious run at something like 90-100 wins and focus on that. Yes, try like heck to contend next year but don’t lose sight of the next time there is an opportunity to be a dominant team, which is around 2010-2013.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

Nothing new on the Teixeira front, other than people in Boston I talk to believe it’s extremely unlikely the Sox would move fan-favorite Youkilis, who’s having a career-type year and is a patient, disciplined hitter with power and strong defensive skills at 1B and 3B — a perfect fit for Braves, in other words.

By TennesseePaul

July 15, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

I just got back from Yankee Stadium and I gotta say I liked it. I enjoyed the nostalgia it offers and the closeness of the game. I was 3 rows back on the right side when watching the game. It was hot last Tuesday, but seeing Pettitte vs Kazmir with a Dirtbag at third was awesome.
Now, the other side of that is, it looked dingier and dirtier than I would have thought. It just looked old. The 70’s facade isn’t all that inspiring either. The field itself was the most redeeming part.
Speaking of the field, I paid attention this time to the grounds crew. It so inspired Payne I had to look. I don’t know if it’s a new thing they do or if they’ve done it since 1978, I haven’t ever paid attention, but the Yankees grounds crew dances. They dance while grooming the field. The Mets crew, I went to Shea two see the Giants/Mets game, doesn’t dance. From where I’m sitting, I prefer the non-dancing grounds crew. But I guess the dancing crew is more entertaining. It just seemed cheap for that to go on in Yankees stadium.
I’m glad I got to see the stadiums one last time. The new parks look incredible. And considering the New Yankee Stadium contains the exact same field dimensions, wider concourses, a throw back facade to the old days and more comfortable seating, I’m thinking it’s going to be just as inspiring to see. And cleaner too. It’ll be one of the only clean buildings in New York. The house that A-Rod built.

By N8

July 15, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

Shaun

Your 11:56 post is dead on. Well stated.

DOB

“We all agreed everything said in there was strictly off the record, so I can’t share anything.”

You could aways email your comments to one of us, and we could post them, by saying “….rumor has it, that…..”

You saying that the meeting was very interesting, but not being able to share it with us, is like going on a date with the “hot girl in school”, but not being allowed to tell your buddies any details. But saying….”you guys should have seen her…..”

Alright. No need to elaborate. In other words, that’s just a mean game of teaser. Just kidding of course. I get it. But now you’ve got me curious. As Stuart Scott would say……that ain’t right.

By bg

July 15, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Any word on Escobar’s MRI?

By TennesseePaul

July 15, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

it becomes clear quite quickly why Fehr has the reputation he does for being a master negotiator…

Did you find yourself handing over the keys to your house and the shirt off your back, only to realize the full extent of what had happened after the meeting was over, in the hall standing their with the other half dressed writers?
“Damnit, he’s good.”

By DAP

July 15, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

everybody im wondering what all of your opinions are on what we should offer tex for a contract. i am curious what you think, in a vaccum, tex is worth to the braves. dont worry about other teams, and bidding wars and all that stuff, (which i know is impossible to do completly, but just try) and let me know what you thinkthe braves should offer tex, what he is worth to them. ill work on what i think as well…

By La Jolla Dawg

July 15, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

I lived in the West Village for 11 months in ‘90-‘91, never made it to Yankee Stadium but did manage to visit Shea Stadium when the Braves played there. My husband and I were told to, “Shut up and sit down” by the Mets fans and were pelted by peanuts. Ahhh, memories. Funny thing, we weren’t being obnoxious at all, just wearing Braves hats and cheering politely during the game. That was the start of worst to first.

By Crazy Stats Katz

July 15, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

I really wonder about how other clubs really value Tex and whether they believe all this $23 Million for 8-10 years that Boras is spouting.

Tex is gonna make that money. Probably not for 8 to 10 years. The contract would most likely be for 7 years. But based upon last year’s market for free agents, the average team paid about $4.4 million for each win above replacement. There should be a 10% increase in that figure this year. making it about $4.84 million per win above replacement that teams pay players on the market this winter.

The question then is how many wins does Tex provide above a replacement player. Every win above replacement (WAR) is generally equal to 10 runs above a replacement player. Don’t confuse WAR with WARP.

If you believe he only provides 4 wins, or 40 runs, above a replacement player, then, according to Tangotiger’s salary scale, you pay him about $19 million for a one year contract or you pay him $106 million for a 7 year contract.

If you believe he provides 5 wins, or 50 runs, above a replacement player, then according to the salary scale, you pay him $24 million for a one year contract or $152 million for a 7 year contract.

If you believe he provides 6 wins or 60 runs above replacement as Boras does, you pay him $29 million for a one year contract or $198 million for a 7 year contract.

Just looking at his numbers - like batting wins from baseball reference, he has averaged 3.3 batting wins the last 3 years. You are supposed to take away a win for being a first baseman but then add two wins for being above replacement. So that gives you 4.3 WAR.

And then you consider his defense. I’m not sure what the defensive stats say about him but if you believe he is that good defensively, you give him another 0.5 to 1 WAR for his defense. That should leave you estimating him to be a 4.8 to 5.3 WAR type of player. Hence, why a team may pay him 7 years, $150 million because that is what an average team would pay a free agent who provides 5 wins above a replacement.

I’m not quite sure how Boras gets Tex to being 6 wins above replacement but he must have his methods.

But basically just assume that he is going to get a 7 year contract. For each half win per season on a 7 year kontract, add 23 million to the contract.

So, if WAR = 4, k = 7 yrs, $106 million

If WAR = 4.5, k = 7 years, $129 million

If WAR = 5, k = 7 years, $152 million

If WAR = 5.5, k= 7 years, $175 million

If WAR = 6, k = 7 years, $198 million

If you want to see the scale from last year and figure it out yourself, go here:

http://www.tangotiger.net/salary2008.html

By Shamus Thacker

July 15, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this

Should we overspend on a player who doesn’t give a damn about the city, the team, the W/L record, or anything baseball related? Should we overspend on a player who’s habitually slow outa the gate, then shrugs it off as something to be accepted instead of corrected? Should we overspend on a player whose LONE desire, involving baseball, is that SOMEBODY overspend on HIM? Doesn’t care who, doesn’t care where; money, being his one/only concern, is green coast to coast.

Y’all can guess as to the object of my disaffection.

By THB

July 15, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

The Braves should start a bidding war. The best matchup is clearly the Dodgers. We should demand Loney, and take Kemp if he’s the only one available. Then, demand Clayton Kershaw. They’ll likely say he’s untouchable, so go after James MacDonald. He’s blown through AA this year. He’s 4-2 in 19 GS with a 3.19 ERA. 103K/36BB in 101 IP. I like that line a lot. He’s 23 right now so I could see him starting out next year in AAA and making his way into the rotation.

That’s a good deal for the Braves-would the Dodgers do it?

By Shaun

July 15, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

And the likelihood that Ortiz is coming back next Friday would seem to make a Tex trade to Boston more unlikely, unless he unexpectedly suffers a serious setback that would put him out for all or most of the remainder of the season.

Would be kind of dumb to trade for a player you don’t need for two months or two months plus a ridiculously huge contract. And Boston doesn’t make too many obviously dumb moves.

By Random

July 15, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this

nolie: “yeah I posted an article on it [FBI investigation of teams pocketing bonuses of Latin American players] here two or three days ago. The Nats GM and their Caribbean scout are both main interests in the investigation”

nolie, I just skimmed everything you posted here in Jun and Jul — could not find that article.

Do you still have the link, or title/author, keywords, etc?

Thanks.

Do you have any other particulars, Shaun? Thanks.

By N8

July 15, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this

Shaun

You’re on a role dude. Your 12:08 was strong as well.

I think in theory of how to “put a team together”, we are very close in our thoughts.

We just disagree (in terms of numbers), in what makes those players valuable to the team. But I’ve never agreed with you more.

It’s the same reason why teams like the Patriots (I know the NFL is different - with essentially no minor leagues to “develop” players), draft the best players available, as opposed to drafting in areas of need.

In other words, if you have a Top notch catcher, say for instance, Brian McCann, and when the Braves draft spot comes up, the best player available is a catcher. You draft the guy.

A team can NEVER have too much talent at one position. Talent is talent, and when it comes to trades, better to have TOP NOTCH talent in the minors (or on your major league roster), to trade. Similar to the Renteria/Escobar situation.

The Tigers needed a SS, we needed pitching. We had Escobar ready to play, so it was a perfect match for a trade.

Had the Braves not drafted Escobar (when we had Furcal - a very good SS in place), that trade is never able to be made.

I’m rambling a bit, but you get the picture.

In the 90’s JS did VERY LITTLE in terms of big name free agents (other than signing our own players we developed or guys we traded for to extensions), other than Maddux, Galarraga and Weiss. Everybody else were either call-ups or trades. Of course our deep (and very talented) farm system facilitated said trades.

I’ve NEVER been for free agency. We dominated the 90’s (regular season), by having a fantastic farm system which gave us (either via the draft or trades), Smoltz, Glavine, Avery, Justice, Gant, Blauser, Lemke, Dye, Chipper, Klesko, Lopez, Andruw, Schmidt (Neagle), Grissom, McGriff, Sheffield, Millwood, JD Drew, Kotsay, Ortiz, Hudson, Furcal, Giles, Francoeur, McCann, LaRoche, Gonzalez, Soriano, Escobar, KJ, etc….

No need to break the bank on one guy, when the budget won’t allow us to field a competitive team. Maybe if the “streak” was still alive, you do what it takes to lock up Tex. But quite honestly, it was the “streak” that caused JS to not think towards the future when giving up Wainwright for JD Drew, and even the Sheffield trade. My guess is that at the time, Odalis could have been traded for a guy not as dynamic as Shef, but somebody who might have been here longer.

The farm system has allowed JS (and now Wren), to let guys like Furcal, Sheff, JD, Andruw, Maddux, Glavine, etc… to “walk” when they became to expensive (though, in hindsight, maybe Maddux and Glavine should have been retained at all costs).

No need or reason to start doing things differently now. If anything, with our limited (still better than most teams), salary options, the farm system needs to be STRONGER than every, to assure that we can make trades for guys that other teams are dumping in fire-sales that are under reasonable contracts.

By Shaun

July 15, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

DAP, here are the 2008 salaries for this some top firstbasemen:

Berkman - $14.5M

Morneau - $8.4M

Pujols - $13,870,949

Youkilis - $3M

Gonzalez - $875,000

Howard - $10M

D Lee - $13.25M

Miguel Cabrera - $11.3M

Carlos Pena - $6M

I think Tex is worth in the $10M a year range. I think he’ll probably get around $12-16M a year for at least 4-6 years.

My highest offer would be about $11.5M a year for 3 years, maybe a fourth option year.

By McFann :Ô:

July 15, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Chief! During the game, we’ll be able to tell. When did he get hit on the other arm? Musta been a night game that I didn’t see…foul ball off the bat of a Parde most likely…

Congrats Chipper & Mac—

I was hoping Josh H. would win, too! He shoulda saved 5 of those first-round homers for the final round!

I didn’t see Chipper or McCann, either. But there are a few good photos of Chipper during batting practice on the “Official All-Star Page” or whatever it’s called. (No photos of 3BMac.)

By Braves20

July 15, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

The thoughts expoused here that the Braves should look to the future makes a great deal of sense.

However, during the Cox era, the strategy has been play for this year i.e. Tex, McGriff and other lesser mid-season pick-ups. Would be surprised if that strategy changes while Bobby occupies the manager’s office. It should change as others pointed out - just doubt that it will - to the detriment of the ball club.

By TexasBrave

July 15, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

IMHO Tex is a player we could build a great team around. I think we already have a lot of key players in Chipper, McCann, Escobar, Hudson, Jair, and French (no way he keeps hitting like he has this year). All we need now is a slugging LF or CF and another reliable starting pitcher either from within the organization or from outside.

So with that said I can conceiveably see payroll being as high as 125 million. If that is the case why not offer Tex 20 million a year plus some incentives. Someone has mentioned that no team has won a championship with one player making more than 16% of the teams overall salary. Well 20 million of 125 is 16%.

Tex will most likely be offered more than this but not considerably more. As some have said here I don’t see Tex as being overly greedy, he just wants his fair share and has Boras to make sure he gets it. Remember ultimately Tex is the one who has to sign the contract. Boras gets the best offers he can, presents them to Tex who weighs the offers and picks whats right for him. I think 20 million and the chance to stay in Atlanta is better than 25 million to play in New York or Boston.

By DAP

July 15, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

ok, ive got my figure. if i were the braves, i would offer tex a 5 year, $75mil contract, with a few performance bonuses…MVP awards, whatever. and, i would front load it slightly.

tex isnt going to take a deal like that, bu thats what i think he is worth to the braves, and thats what i would offer him.

he wouldnt take it, but you know who would? milton bradley would sign for less than that. ben sheets would probably sign for that. ryan dempster would probably sign for that. mike cameron would sign for less than that. furcal would sign for less than that. orando hudson would sign for less than that. eric hinske would sign for less than that. heck, we could extend hudson for that much.

im not saying id offer this or any contract for any of those players, just pointing out how many free agents are out there that we could get for the money we are gonna save on tex. with all the money we have off the books, we WILL be able to afford to sign a couple of BIG free agents. and i hope we do.

By Random

July 15, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this

Please, DAP, spare us.

I’m beggin’ ya, man.

By Renegator

July 15, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

DAP

Thanks for sharing that story about Josh Hamilton. I did not know that and now I have a new found respect for him.

By BravesFanInRockies

July 15, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

It looks as if Tex and Holliday may be the only two impact hitters avaiable at the deadline and I’m not at all sure the Rockies will offer Holliday. They’d probably get more for him in the offseason and it’s difficult selling your fans that you’re serious about building a winner if you go from NL champs to fire sale in less than one season UNLESS you’re slashing payroll (and the Rockies don’t plan to).

So Tex may be the only big bat out there. I’d love to see a deal for Loney or Kotchman or Youk with other pieces involved.

Here’s another idea, whether or not Tex is moved: What about Ohman or Campillo for Ty Wigginton (again, with other lesser pieces involved)?

Wiggy destroys left-handers. He can play first or third or corner OF positions. You could find a place for him in the lineup every day, with Tex on the club or not. He should be much cheaper than Nady or Bay.

Thoughts?

By Bobby's Cox

July 15, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

DAP

Ya I saw Bradley was a free agent, but with his attitude I don’t think they braves would target him so I didn’t put him on the list (though I linked it).

With the signing of Taveras and Spiezio this year, Bradely good be an option. We could use his bat.

By Shaun

July 15, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this

Random, here is a link to a story on the FBI investigation involving bonuses to Latin Americans:

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/rumors/post/FBI-investigating-swindling-of-Latin-American-pr?urn=mlb,93678

N8, yeah, I think we do agree. Free agents and trades are not the way to build a team. The Braves are going to have something much bigger and better than a key free agent or two in a couple of years. They are going to have a lot of players entering their primes at the same time, some slightly older players that should still be very good and some very talented young players just entering the majors. That’s about 15 times better than signing a good free agent or two.

By Jake C.

July 15, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this

DOB, Have you heard if the Red Sox would trade their 1B prospect Lars Anderson or if the Braves would have any interest in a package that included Anderson?

By AJ in Augusta

July 15, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this

I grew up north of NYC and once I could drive, I’d go to Shea and Yankee stadiums and buy a pair of tickets to every scheduled doubleheader (yes, way back then) for the summer.

Toronto was in town in April of 1977 and the Yankees were in a slump. After buying my tickets at the stadium box office, I bought a single ticket to that afternoon game and stood outside the players entrance with a bunch of other kids and had them sign my ticket envelope.

The signatures included Phil Rizzuto, Jimmy Wynn, Ed Figueroa, Willie Randolph, Roy White and several others… but the best I one I got was good ol’ Billy Martin. I still have it in a small frame.

I sat down the right field line and the crowd gasped when they posted the Yankee lineup. Billy had put all the starters names in a hat and drew the order.. with power hitter Chris Chambliss batting 8th.

The Yankees won 8-6 that day… and went on to win the division and the World Series that year.

I was fortunate to have watched the ‘69 and ‘86 Mets and then the Yankees of the late ‘70’s before moving South in ‘88.

Lesson to learn Braves fans… treasure those 14 straight years of excellence that Cox and crew put together.

As Simon & Garfunkel once sang, DOB:

“Time it was, and what a time it was, it was. A time of innocence, a time of confidences.

Long ago, it must be, I have a photograph.

Preserve your memories, they’re all that’s left you”

By cabravesfan

July 15, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

McFann- Mac got hit by a bat (someone’s backswing got him) on the left arm on Saturday night

By ATLFAN

July 15, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

To the the one and only:

Sould we listen to a blogger who doesn’t ever have any hard facts to back up his assertions? Should we listen to a blogger who habitually brings nothing to the table in terms of intelligent discussion? Should we listen to a blogger whose LONE desire is to smear a ballplayer he has probably never met, knows nothing about, doesn’t care who, doesn’t care where, being his one/only concern is to type nonsense on a daily basis?

Y’all can guess as to the object of my disaffection…

By cabravesfan

July 15, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

McFann- sorry- I actually think it was Friday that Mac got hit

By MiamiBrave

July 15, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this

DOB

I’m just asking your honest opinion, from what you see, from what you feel covering this team. I’ve followed this blog for a while now and have a high respect for your opinion.

I’m just wondering if you believe this team can actually still make a run at the division? because the wild card is almost definitely a no go.

I believe the pitching is there, and they should be getting some additions (hopefully) through health issue recoveries, but the offense is what has been woeful, not producing to its potential.

So just wondering what you think from what you see.

BTW, will you be in Miami covering the series at Dolphins stadium?

By OrlandoFan

July 15, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

I’ve actually had the pleasure to be at Yankee Stadium on two occassions: the games there for the 1977 and 1978 World Series. I grew up a Yankees fan in the days of Mickey Mantle, and much as Josh Hamilton said, my yard was that stadium, and I was the Yankees CF. That was a few decades and doses of reality ago, but that was the world. CBS owned the Yankees, and Diz and Pee Wee called their games on their Game of the Week (only the announcers and network have changed today!) I fell out of love with the team after Steinbrenner bought it and found my way to the Braves during their dismal early years on WTBS. But I, too, was in awe when I visited the Stadium. It was larger and more rustic than my little B&W TV could show, and looking at those short porches down the lines made me think I indeed could have hit a few out of there. Ha. The greatest memory, of course, is Game 6 of the 1977 Series, when I had the pleasure of watching Reggie Jackson hit three homers in three swings (with a 4-pitch walk mixed in). I’ve been privileged to witness some great moments, but that was one of the most unexpected and powerful displays I’ve ever seen. I have to add, however, that watching Reggie in BP that night was one of those “awe” moments for most of us. He just kept launching them. It’s a wonderful ballpark for the games played there, but it’s amenities — at least way back then — were, uh, rustic. I love old and charming, but I also like clean and safe. I’ve been to Fenway and to Wrigley, but they don’t compare to the cathedral-like atmosphere of Yankee Stadium.

By Chad

July 15, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

Anybody heard anything about Escobar’s MRI? I have a fantasy baseball roster decision to make!

By raindawg722

July 15, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this

I went to Yankee Stadium to see an afternoon tilt against the Angels last year with my brother-in-law. We were sitting on the field level, pretty far down the foul line in left. The couple next to us was getting sloshed. At one point, the woman left her seat and while she was gone the guy spilled a pretty full beer all over her purse. He then tried to recruit us to convince her that a foul ball had come into the stands and knocked the beer over.

I also went when I was a kid while staying with my grandparents in Connecticut. I remember the Yankees played the White Sox, who were wearing their ugly 1980s uniforms, Sinatra singing New York, New York, and that the hot dogs seemed much better than the dogs at Atlanta Fulton County Stadium.

By DAP

July 15, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

shaun thanx for your response. after seeing the numbers you posted, my offer to tex may have been a little high. i based it on the fact that he is getting 12.5 in arbitration this year, though. either way, the point is made…tex would be nice to have, but if you had a choice of him or two or three other very good players, youd be stupid not to take the 3 players over the one.

By N8

July 15, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

Shaun

“N8, yeah, I think we do agree. Free agents and trades are not the way to build a team.”

I’m not as “down” on trades, if they’re of the “trading from surplus for a young, talented player that we can control at a reasonable salary” variety. Like Renteria for JJJ. Or the Doyle for Smoltz variety.

Now, I don’t expect for us to trade aging veterans for a HOF caliber player. But, one could argue that had Smoltz left in the 90’s and signed elsewhere, that trade would have still been a VERY good one for Atlanta. The fact that he’s going to the HOF and will more than likely spend his entire big-league career in the Braves uniform, is just a bonus.

I’m just not a big fan of the Wainwright for JD, Odalis for Sheffield, 5 prospects for Tex, type of trades.

In a perfect world, those guys lead us to a WS title, and they look better in hindsight. But those type of deals generally don’t work out. The McGriff trade did (be it 2 years later), and we certainly got the better of that deal.

I’m just glad the “streak” is over, so Wren can focus on the future, rather with short bursts of greatness.

In the end, I’d still rather have 162 games of GOOD baseball year after year, and “choke” (or have bad luck. LOL!), in the post-season, than go for it with a HUGE “mover and shaker” type of trade that falls short.

If we end up getting a major league ready 1B for Tex, and maybe another high ceiling prospect, it will diminish some of the “loss” that we gave up for Tex in the first place.

Like has been said before, we ultimately traded Andy Marte’ for JJJ, with two pretty damn good seasons of Renteria at SS in between. Too bad they can’t all work out like that.

By McFann :Ô:

July 15, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

cabravesfan—

Thanks. Now that you mention it, I think I heard them mention that after he got hit on Sunday. Sheesh…

I’m ready for the game, how about you guys?

By Wilson

July 15, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

My experience at Yankee stadium last summer - A few of my fraternity brothers and I went on a “baseball and beer tour” through the Northeast last summer, which included stops at Camden Yards, Yuengling Brewery, Fenway, Sam Adams Brewery, Yankee Stadium, the Jack Daniels Distillery and a few other stops in between all in a week’s time. Anyway, we woke up at 3 the morning after the 4th of July in Boston after participating in all the festivities the night before, drove to NYC, checked into the hotel near Brooklyn, took the subway to Yankee Stadium and got there in time for the first pitch of an afternoon against the Twins. It was one of the hottest games I’ve been to. It may have had more to do with the fact that it was near the end of our trip though when we were all tired and getting tired of one another after nearly a week on the road in 4 or 5 cities. I didn’t get to walk through Monument Park or take in much scenery around the stadium, but just the fact I was in the stadium was incredible and an unforgettable experience. It wasn’t ideal circumstances, but it was amazing being in the place where so much history has taken place. Simply awesome experience!

Also saw Dice-K pitch a one-hitter in Boston, and got to see fellow Mississippi State alum Jonathan Papelbon close out the game.

By J-Dawg

July 15, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the blog DOB. My first visit to Yankee Stadium will be August 30 - this year. It’s a day game and I plan on arriving early for BP and to see monument grove. Tickets are hard to come by - it’s either going to be an online broker or eBay. Either way, I figure I’ll drop a decent amount to see The House before it’s torn down. Good luck to Hoss and McCann tonight. Go NL!

By Bobby's Cox

July 15, 2008 1:35 PM | Link to this

Shaun

I totally agree with you. You have a lot of good posts today and 11:56 was dead on. I think the braves need to take that approach, but I fear Wren, with Schuerholtz looming in the background, still wants to adopt a win now attitude going into Bobby’s last season.

I was simply stating that it would take 2 trades to fill 2 big holes (unless like DAP suggested we could get Loney and Kemp from LA - Kemp who may have his own attitude problems), while other holes could be filled with the freed up budget money this offseason.

About KJ. As much as you and I sparred on the guy earlier this year, I have to give you credit. You back up your stance really well, and I like KJ. He’s got a sweet stroke, especially when he’s on, and he’s a respectable guy. However, I still think with Prado on the team, KJ’s expendable. Prado’s defensive upside is higher than KJ’s ever will be even though his power numbers never will. Like KJ, Prado works the count. He’ll be a superb doubles hitter, he’s a good bunter, hits the ball constantly to the right side, and is a consistent bat. The braves need this type of hitter in the lineup. I can’t back it up with stats just yet, it’s just a hunch. But, the offense looks more fluid when Prado gets some starts. They’ve had some offensive explosions in his limited starts, including Sunday’s win. Even his K on Sunday was a 7 pitch AB, and came before the braves erupted for 5. Last year he led Richmond deep into the IL playoffs. There’s something about the kid I see, that I saw when he was brought up in ‘06 with a few timely hits including a HR, but it’s just my opinion.

I wouldn’t mind seeing KJ at first either. Him and Prado have looked damn good in the lineup at the same time in the last week or so late in games. But i don’t think he’d be learning a 3rd position any time soon. Chipper could also play 1st to limit his range and protect his legs. With a left-handed 2nd baseman and catcher, you’re limited on LHers to play other positions like the braves have now with the OF.

By bgvt

July 15, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

I’ve been to about a dozen games at Yankee Stadium. My favorite was a day game with the Braves in 1997. We bought tickets from someone on the street (some season ticket holders can’t make all the day games) and sat in the first deck right behind home plate.

Greg Maddux pitched an absolute gem: a complete game, 84 pitches, only gave up 3 hits, and the Braves won 2-0. Maddux faced only 28 batters (thanks to a pick off and a double play). Doc Gooden started for the Yankees.

Despite being a day game in July, it was a cool day in NYC. It just had all the sights and sounds of a great day at the ballpark — a magical couple of hours (literally since the game was over in about 2 hours even) at the ballpark.

By Random

July 15, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

westy12: “Wasn’t the moral of your previous post that we shouldn’t make character judgments about people we haven’t met? (By the way, I filtered out the personal attacks to arrive at this moral.) That philosophy can be applied pretty selectively, huh?”

What personal attacks? You said my opinions were those of a juvenile fanboy, I said yours were those of a juvenile fanboy scorned.

And the “moral” was not to make up stuff that you don’t know, or not to make personal judgments without facts to support them. Something like that.

“Your “Tesh” is a guy that’s about money, I get that. He doesn’t care about which uniform he wears, or his teammates, or winning, or any of that stuff. For Tesh, the name of the game is: who’s going to win the artificial bidding war created by his agent? Because for “Tesh”, fair market value (150 mil) just isn’t enough.”

No, you don’t “get that” — you’re still just making stuff up out of your own head. What do you know about what he does or doesn’t care about? For that matter, what do you even know about what fair market value is — anything that you say it is? You make it obvious that you do not even know the meaning of the term.

You’re still condemning Tex for a decision he has not yet even made, one that will be based on factors that you cannot even begin to fathom.

“don’t let the facts get in the way”

Small chance of that happening — you haven’t brought any facts to the discussion.

“let’s not pretend”

Fine by me. But I’m afraid that’s all that you have been doing — pretending that you know what motivates Tex, pretending to know what he’s thinking and what he cares about, pretending to know what his teammates are thinking — you go so far as to even pretend to know what the heck you’re talking about.

Finally, by all the patronizing phrases you’ve been dropping — Your “Tesh”; your boy; your fandom; your boy Tesh; juvenile fanboy hero worship, like yours — it is apparent that you did not read or comprehend the first part of my comment to you yesterday.

Go ahead — check it out.

I fully endorsed the following position of tkg’s:

“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.”

Let me ask you this —

You seem to be saying that when Tex was with the Rangers, he should have taken any contract they offered him that you would consider “fair market”.

And now that he’s with the Braves, he should take any contract that they offer him, as long as you consider it fair.

So you seem to believe that players are the properties of the clubs they’re currently playing for; and that they should take whatever contract they’re given (if it’s “fair” in your eyes), and be happy with it.

Is that a more or less accurate statement of your position?

By TexasBrave

July 15, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

Shaun thanks for the numbers. After viewing those it would not be smart to offer him 20 million upfront. I like DAP’s offer of 15 mil and perhaps 16 to start. Then perhaps increase it by increments under a 5 to 7 year contract. He will still be offered more by other teams, but the offer is fair and more than any other first baseman. If he goes elsewhere for more money so be it, we will use the money to get two players to take his place. But if he takes it then we will have a premier player for years to come.

By doc

July 15, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

david, first time in 1964 attended an old timers game there between the yankees and washington. can vividly remember the trip from ridgewood n.j., where my dad grew up, over to the city going across the huge george washington bridge headed into yankee stadium. saw so many of the greats there and remember distinctly the three monuments sitting in the outfield in plain view around the pillars that supported the upper decks thinking how strange but enamored. most significant part of the game was to remember joe dimaggio doffing his cap to wave at the crowd. still get chill bumps at that scene. i believe he hit one that reached the warning track in left field. i dont think he continued to comeback there too much longer.

i used to get so hyped up just seeing those old timer games on tv but to actually attend was so cool. funny how those things dont matter anymore to the payers, teams or fans anymore. jaded, unattached to the roots of the game, not sure, but it made my summer.

By DAP

July 15, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

random and regenerator its a great story, hunh?

bobby’s cox i think bradley would be ok here, as far as his temper. i dont think he has a bad additude, just a short fuse. having a manager like bobby will help that a little bit, i think.

bravesfaninrockies i wouldnt trade campillo or ohman.

By Pamela Y Jones

July 15, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

Is this guy nuts? You gonna meet someone on a New York street with this friends?

By TennesseePaul

July 15, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

I’m not as “down” on trades, if they’re of the “trading from surplus… I’m just not a big fan of the … 5 prospects for Tex type trades.
You do realize the Braves traded from surplus to get Teixeira, a young talented player they could control for at least two seasons, in this trade, right? Surplus. 2 playoff runs. They also received another player, whom they then received draft picks upon his exit. That’s 5 players for 2. And from those 2 the Braves will get a return of at the least 3 players in picks, or 1 pick for Mahay, and whatever is acquired in a Trade of Teixeira. It’s a net loss of maybe 2 surplus players for a chance at 2 playoff runs.
You do realize the Brewers just traded from surplus to acquire a guy they’ll only have for 3 months… knowing full well the guy is walking at years end. They’re expecting him to walk so as to recoup 2 picks and build more surplus…
We’re talking about making trades right now to build this team to a championship right? To have a shot at winning? So acquiring JD and winning was a bad deal? At the time we traded from surplus went to the post season, he left, we got draft picks.
And you’re really broken up over Odalis Perez?

By Random

July 15, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the link, Shaun.

I’m with you ATLFAN. (In my least lucid moments I sometimes think that Tex himself is posting under that handle, fishing for compliments and recruiting defenders.)

Least lucid, I said, like when I read that tripe.

8-§)

By Greg O.

July 15, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

bgvt, I was at that game, too. It was vintage Maddux. If I remember correctly, something like all but two of the 27 outs didn’t leave the infield, mostly ground balls. Complete game in 1:56 or something. Unbelievable.

That’s probably my favorite memory at Yankee Stadium, with Roger Clemens’ 300th win and 4,000th strikeout game a close second. Crazy atmosphere that day. Packed house, standing in the rain to see it against the Cardinals.

My worst memory has to be June 28, 2006. Smoltz pitched a gem through seven and left with a 2-1 lead. Ken Ray then gave up a towering home run off the facing of the upper deck to the second batter he faced, Jason Giambi, to tie the game.

Scoreless through the next three innings, Marcus Giles puts the Braves back on top in the 12th before the Jorge Sosa closer experiment proved faulty when A-Rod hit a walk-off homer in the bottom half of the inning. New York, New York already started playing before the ball hit the ground. Awful.

By ACN

July 15, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

ESPN’s coverage of the home-run hitting contest was abysmal, full of hype and distraction. The event would have been a great opportunity to highlight the history of long home runs in that place. There was also no footage or mention of the prohibitive dimensions of the outfield in years past. During Babe Ruth’s career, dead center field was 490 feet. In Mantle’s era, dead center field was 450+ feet. Ruth once hit a 520-foot homerun into the old center-field bleachers below the scoreboard (per Hall of Fame consultant Bill Jenkinson). Mickey Mantle bounced one off of the old facade in right field, coming closer than anybody else to hitting one out of the Bronx ballyard. All the ESPN crew could come up with was hearsay — totally undocumented — about great Negro Leaguer Josh Gibson supposedly hitting one out of the stadium. I guess Chris Berman and his fellow sportscasters were too lazy to do the requisite research on the documented history of that great ballpark.

As for the home-run hitting contest itself? Josh Hamilton went absolutely unconscious and is to be commended. But the entire eevnt smacks of PT Barnum, with the batting practice pitcher throwing from about 45 feet away and with specially designed “rabbit” balls specially made to fly long distances.

PUH-LEEZE!!

By rupert

July 15, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

totally agree on yankee stadium, special place, never been, but just watching a game on tv feels different, especially in october, it’s a shame they didn’t preserve it like it was orginally when they renovated it, i think if they had done that they wouldn’t be building a new one, still a great place though, be sad to see it go…

By TennesseePaul

July 15, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

I’m just glad the “streak” is over, so Wren can focus on the future, rather with short bursts of greatness.

Short bursts of greatness? The Streak lasted for a decade and a half… Go to the Hall and see the exhibit on the Braves streak. It’s incredible. I wish it were still alive but the pitching went to shambles and that was a factor of Time Warner, not JS.

By TexasBrave

July 15, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

Just a random thought thinking about Bobby signing the one year contract. Does anyone think that Bobby signed the contract to take the focus of this being his last year? It seems to me that Bobby is the type of manager that puts more focus on his players than himself and would not want the distraction of this being his last year to take away from them. Eventhough he signed the contract he can still retire at the end of the season if he wants to. It seems to me he wouldn’t want the hoopla that would surround his finaly year as skipper.

By D

July 15, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

I’m looking for the name of an R&B SONG and the ARTIST from the early 90’s. It has the words…your love was just like a brand new car, I made some late payments and now it’s gone….repossess love

By brent a.

July 15, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

For those of you touring ballparks this summer …

Here’s a list of what to (and what not) to eat while enjoying our nation’s passtime.

A sad note: Skip & Pete’s barbecue was identified as “What not to eat” at Turner Field.

to eat, or not to eat

By keylargo

July 15, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this

Random

I going to defend DAP with his ESPN article. I’m certain you would have information in that piece that you could learn from. Whether you would or not is in doubt.

By brent a.

July 15, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

TexasBrave

You might be right. I doubt it; but, you might be right.

By Congrats Chipper & Mac

July 15, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

I like Skip & Pete’s but it is way too much food for a girl or even an average sized man. You better be HONGRY when you order one of those sammiches!

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

OK, done with meetings for the day. Had the regular BBWAA meeting, then we had an informal, six-person thing with Rob Manfred and Pat Courtney of MLB.

Time to make my way to Yankee Stadium.

By Milton Jeff

July 15, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this

TexasBrave: in response to your earlier comment, the new yankee stadium will have the exact dimensions as the old ballpark. just google “new yankee stadium” and a ton of links will pop up. ACN: I agree w/ your comments about the ESPN commentators, they were horrible. Berman needs to stick w/ football. Hamilton was awesome. Great story. I feel the Braves need to keep what they have for the remainder of the year and then dump the x-tra weight ($$) in the off-season.

By BravesFanInRockies

July 15, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this

*DAP,

You have to give up something to get something, and Ohman’s apparently either on the block or could be, as DOB and others have reported. A lefty who can pitch a lot and get righties out is valuable. His departure would create a hole in the bullpen but he’s a free agent at the end of the year. If you can swap him and improve the club by filling a need, you have to consider it.

The reason I mention Campillo is that I question whether he will be effective after teams have seen him pitch regularly for a number of starts. I don’t see him as anything more than a back of the rotation guy and I don’t see him as an indispensable part of the staff after this season.

He’s been a bit of a magician so far but he’s also limited, too. I think a patient team with power could eat him alive. If Hampton can take his regular turn in the rotation, Campillo may be worth dangling to a club that needs quality innings, and might give up something of value for him.

By doc

July 15, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

boston is where we were ten years ago and can be a bit condescending as we want more for tex. fans here want youkillis and change. boston knows that they can wait until the off season and have both or offer youkillis to us after they sign tex and get more than chump change back as we dont have anyone to fill the gap when tex leaves. no leverage is the problem and folks like the red sox know it. m,y how things have changed. if tex could gaurantee a world series then fine but i dont think he is that category of player.

my bad, but i was all set to bask in glory when tex came aboard and felt he was the missing link. it isnt a problem with tex. what it demonstrates is we probably overestimate what we have and think we are better or further along than we really are. injuries you say? i say we should have and really deep down knew they would be there based on who were the leaders of the team were, all ballplayers except mccann that have milage and a history of injuries that they were going to be on the brink of the whole season.

By BA

July 15, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

DOB, please, watch out for Anders, he could be like Deniro in “The Fan”. What a schmuck.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

Shaun, your 11:56 a.m., that’s the direction I think Braves are leaning towards, too. I think they see it much as you do.

By Reid in EAV

July 15, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

OK, so the Tex for Youk trade looks like a no-go. What about Tex for Hamilton? Or Tex and Frenchy for Hamilton? Or Tex and Frenchy and prospects for Hamilton?

Only kidding folks. Mostly. (And I’m sure the Rangers wouldn’t want Tex back anyway, especially for what’s sure to be just two months.)

By Peter Mariano

July 15, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

Favorite Yankee Stadium memory for me was game 2 1998 World Series. I went with my dad Bernie Williams hit a Hr and the place went crazy,and even though we were in the second to last row of the upper deck in Lf it was still amazing to be at a World Series game at Yankee Stadium. Also seeing Rivera come out of the pen to enter sand man at any game in the bronx is unreal.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

Speaking of ballpark grub, the Randy Jones BBQ at Petco is quite strong. Not as good as Boog BBQ behind the right-field wall at Camden Yards, but as good as Bull’s BBQ at the Philly ballpark.

By Steve from OH

July 15, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

Brett DeVall pitched today for the GCL Braves…2IP, O ER, 1H, 1BB, 0K

By Shaun

July 15, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

DOB, Yeah, I think that’s why Teixeira to the Rays is an intriguing possibility, if the Rays are interested in going for it all this season, which seems like a possibility in that division. They don’t know when they’ll get another chance as good as this one.

The Braves could get maybe Eric Hinske to play first along with a couple of young players/prospects. Hinske would be a nice stop-gap until Heyward is ready or until they can find a better option in a couple of years.

By DAP

July 15, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

keylargo thanx, man.

bravesfaninrockies i dont hate the idea of trading ohman or campillo, but i dont really think we need wigginton, thats all. i guess he not a terrible option to play some 1st base, but he wouldnt be my first choice. he wouldnt even be on my list, actually. i dont want to platoon 1st base.

By atown

July 15, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this

Favorite Yankee Stadium memory: my only time in there…walking through the tunnel to the lower level seats, looking up seeing the idlyllic ‘arches’ on the fascade that we all associate w/ ‘The Stadium.’ I hate the “evil empire” but love that stadium and will sorely miss it.

By Adam Spangler

July 15, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

My first game was in the bleachers before they banned the alcohol. Flavor Flav was sitting in front of me wearing a bright-orange jumpsuit as if he were vacationing from prison. I remember the Adidas signage as unruly. So prevalent were the three stripes that you’d think they owned the team. Horizontal stripes are not a good look for fat wallets. Its a historic dump, but its still a dump. as someone who lives in NYC and is always rooting for the AWAY team unless it is a NL East team (Mets), i’m looking forward to the new NY stadiums.

By Cooper S

July 15, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

My favorite memory of Yankee Stadium has to be sitting in the right field upper deck a couple years ago and having multiple fights break out around me. Some guy got thrown from the last row all the way down to the aisle and a brawl ensued with about 20 fans being kicked out of the stadium and another 10 or so arrested. It was—and I’m not saying this sarcastically—perfect. Man, I miss New York…

By Shaun

July 15, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

Reid in EAV, yep. Not even a remote possibility.

doc, no leverage? It’s not like the Braves have to trade Tex. At worst, they get draft picks and have his salary off the books.

And it’s not like Boston is the only possibility. Boston seemed like a long shot all along, unless Ortiz was out for the rest of the season. Even then, I don’t think Boston would have been willing to give up all that much. I think more desperate teams are a much stronger possibility. Boston has something but not much to gain by trading for Tex and a lot to lose.

Tex was acquired to give the Braves a shot while Chipper and Smoltz were here and productive. They gave up a lot but they gave up players at positions of strength and depth.

Looks like they aren’t going to get to the playoffs with Tex so they move on to their next best opportunity.

Looking at the young players on the major league roster right now and the players in the farm system, the Braves are more loaded than a lot of people realize. Could be really fun to see what happens in a couple-to-four years.

By Cecil34

July 15, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

DOB

I still am curious what you think is the Braves’ master plan for Clint Sammons. I never hear anything about him, or what he may ever do for the big club.

We all know Mac is entrenched and rightfully so.

Would like to know your thoughts on him.

On another note…

I had driven by Yankee stadium in the early 80’s and I remember a lot of litter and trash on the sides of the roads - it sort of reminded me of an oasis in the middle of a desert.

The stadium had a awe-inspiring aura about it though.

By Crazy Stats Katz

July 15, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

I think Tex is worth in the $10M a year range. I think he’ll probably get around $12-16M a year for at least 4-6 years. My highest offer would be about $11.5M a year for 3 years, maybe a fourth option year.

Shaun, that is clueless. You brought up Pujols for example. Let’s examine what’s wrong with your Pujols example. You stated that Pujols is making only $13,870,949. That is correct.

Pujols, however, signed a 7 year, $100 mil contract in 2004 at a time when teams were paying $3 per WAR. That rate will be about 4.84 mil per WAR in this upcoming offseason.

A 7 year, $152 million contract right now for Tex would have only been worth 7 years, $94 million in 2004 on the free agency market. A 7 year, $152 million contract for Tex now will be a worth a 7 year, $243 million contract 6 offseasons from now if the market continues to experience 10% growth.

Plus, you also have to discount that Pujols was not a free agent at the time. It was basically a buy out of his three arbitration eligible years, thus depressing the value of his contract by about $25 million at the time. In his first year as an arb eliglble, he could have reasonably expected 40% of his free agent market value. In his second year, 60%. In his third year, 80%.

If you consider Pujols a 6 WAR player as the Cardinals clearly did at that time, the Cardinals saved themselves around $24 million off the total contract because he was merely arb eligible at the time.

If Pujols had been a free agent, he would have received a 7 year, $123 million dollar contract at the time as a player of a 6 WAR value.

That 7 year, $123 million dollar contract would be worth a 7 year, $198 million dollar contract as a 6 WAR player if he had been fortunate enough to hit the open market in this upcoming offseason.,

So I think citing what Pujols makes is very poor analysis on your part because what he makes is based upon what the market was 5 offseasons ago when he was an arb eligible player - not a free agent.

Think about what a bargain a 7 year, $152 million dollar contract for Tex will be 5 years from now. If the market continues to grow at 10%, a similar player 5 years from now with a 5 WAR will be receiving a 7 year, $243 million dollar contract.

You say Tex will be in decline but he won’t be declining as fast as the market is growing. What will be a somewhat expensive contract now will be a relative bargain in only 5 years - much like your beloved Theo Epstein discovered about Manny Ramirez. After years of trying to dump him, young Theo finally realized he had a relative bargain on his hands with Manny because of how the market had grown in 5 offseasons. The same wil be true of Tex.

Sign Tex.

By westy12

July 15, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

Random,

I believe you were refering to me as an idiot in your first post, before I ever addressed you. And you were also “making up stuff that you don’t know” about me and my priorities. So you have to understand, your mixed signals could have diluted the “moral” of your post. But we’ll conveviently ignore that…

Maybe you should enlighten us all and explain your militant emotional attachment to this debate, for the sake of clarity. Because I can’t imagine feeling so personally offended by someone who has a differing opinion on this issue.

My informed opinion, which is shared by many others, is that someone in “Tesh’s” position, who stands to be financially set for life with his next contract by all accounts, should not employ Scott Boras. It’s that simple. There’s no anti-free agency message there, or anything else that you’re trying to attribute to me.

Whether you agree or not, the people you choose to associate with provide some window into your character and your priorities and your motives. And I happen to believe employing Boras speaks volumes. This is a guy who has tried to destroy the draft, free agency, and the competitive structure of MLB, not to mention trying to upstage last year’s World Series, and numerous other stunts that suggest Boras thinks he and his clients are bigger than the game. So forgive me if it rubs me the wrong way for a player to allow an agent with such a dubious track record to steer his career, making a fortune from baseball, while employing a guy that doesn’t care if he destroys baseball.

I’m not making this stuff up either, you can find plenty of articles online, by respected sports journalists, that express these sentiments. I don’t have time to find them for you.

The Rangers’ salary offer has been documented also, so a ballpark market value of 150 mil is not that far off from what several teams might be willing to pay, with 1-2 probably going higher. I believe similar numbers have been thrown around by the blogmaster. Nothing made up there.

Joe Simpson has also made comments that allude to “Tesh’s” arrogance, saying that it’s not acceptable for a player at his salary to take an approach that the first part of the season doesn’t matter, that his horrible starts are part of some master plan. This also informs my opinion that the team is not Tesh’s primary interest.

Finally, and this is purely subjective, but I just don’t see Tesh play with any passion. Many have commented about his aloof “robotic” manner, and his arrival has clearly not inspired greatness from his teammates, as the Braves have not seen any improvement. Tesh simply doesn’t have those intangibles that Chipper or Smoltz or Jeter or Schilling or any of the other clutch big-game team-leader types have. Tesh has more in common with A-Rod than those guys. Except that A-Rod finally wised up to the fact that his agent was irreperably destroying the public perception of him. Oh, and also Tesh isn’t nearly as good as A-Rod. Sorry if that’s blasphemy to your ears, Random.

Maybe all this has nothing to do with what I see as selfish motives, but the entire picture adds up to that, in my informed opinion. Also in my informed opinion, a blog is not an unreasonable place for opinions, speculation, and predictions.

But what do I know, I’m just an idiot. Thanks for being so interested in what this idiot has to say, Random. Maybe I’ll come around to sharing your blind faith of Tesh one of these days, if you keep offering such persuasive attacks and completely non-hypocritical morality tales. Keep up the good work!

By Richie

July 15, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

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 Steve from OH

July 15, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

Shaun, Tex to the Rays is interesting. If Hinske comes back, I would hope we would also get a frontline prospect. Is Wade Davis or Jake McGee too much, I wonder? I could see the Rays maybe doing that. They’ve got a ton of depth in their system. But Tex for Hinske alone? Probably not.

By BamaBrave

July 15, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

Here’s my Yankee Stadium story… I delivered antiques as a summer job during college. In 1979, a wealthy industrialist came into the shop in Charleston and bought most of the inventory for his new apartment in NYC. We were used to making deliveries regionally, but this time we’d have to drive two 40 foot Hertz rental trucks into Manhattan from South Carolina.

The journey itself was like a chapter from a Hunter S. Thompson novel, but suffice it to say we made the delivery to the guy’s 5th Avenue apartment. We’d parked the trucks at 5:00am and by 3:00pm we were done. The wealthy guy’s assistant then gave us both $50 and a ticket to that night’s Yankees game. I was blown away. I was never a big fan of the Yankees, but even at that age, I appreciated the chance to actually attend a game at The House.

It took us over an hour to get the trucks back to the motel in New Jersey, and we had no choice but to jump immediately in a cab and head to the Bronx. I’m sure we smelled like we had walked all the way from South Carolina. Eventually, we made it to the Stadium. Ron Guidry pitched for New York..against the Twins, I think. I’m not sure who won. We probably spent more time in the beer line and the latrine than we did actually watching the game. My main recollection was that the Stadium was old and fairly nasty - especially those restrooms. Wow. And it was crowded. VERY different from the modest, low-key crowds I’d witnessed at old Fulton County Stadium. Like night and day.

At the end of the game, we followed the crowds and somehow found the right subway route back into Manhattan. I’m assuming we caught a cab, but we ended up a a great music house and saloon called Mother’s in Wayne, N.J. That place rocked.

So…that’s it… Not much baseball in my Yankee Stadium story, but it was one helluva evening….

By Bobby's Cox

July 15, 2008 3:20 PM | Link to this

Tex to Tampa for David Price. Now that would be a steal, and Tampa wouldn’t do it. I still like Loney if the dodgers bite.

By Shaun

July 15, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

You say Tex will be in decline but he won’t be declining as fast as the market is growing. What will be a somewhat expensive contract now will be a relative bargain in only 5 years - much like your beloved Theo Epstein discovered about Manny Ramirez. After years of trying to dump him, young Theo finally realized he had a relative bargain on his hands with Manny because of how the market had grown in 5 offseasons. The same wil be true of Tex.

The question is it wise for the Braves to make Teixeira one of the highest paid players through say 2012? I’d say no. Even it is a fair contract, I still don’t think it’s a wise thing for the Braves to do. My numbers may be off but I stand by my point.

And Epstein would have traded Ramirez at any point for the right price. What he realized is he could not get equal value, not that he was a bargain. Plus, the Braves don’t have the resources that the Red Sox have.

By timthebrave

July 15, 2008 3:24 PM | Link to this

Tell Tex that you would go about $90 million for 6 years. Ask him if that is in the ballpark. If not trade him for what ever we can get. Congrats to Mccann and C Jones on making all star game. Much deserved. Mccann deserves to be starting but I don’t mind him sitting the bench…He probably needs the rest. Looking forward to the Braves getting healthy and kicking a$$ in the 2nd 1/2. Go Braves!!

By Bobby's Cox

July 15, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this

Crazy Stats

Good analysis of Pujols. Although you didn’t say whether or not you think the market will continue to grow 10% per year, I don’t think it will.

Much like what’s going on in the rest of the economy, baseball salary’s will and should level off that growth rate, especially if inflationary prices keep fans at home. I think Tex is lucky he’s a free agent this offseason. In offseasons to come, i would expect teams to be cutting down on budgets and player salaries will consequently take a hit.

By Rodney Derrick

July 15, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

DOB— I went to a Yankee-Red Sox game in September 1959, and my memory is that we were sitting on first base side just past infield and in second deck. The Mick, Yogi, and Ted Williams all played in the game. However, as I went with my parents and my NY cousins, I did not control arrival, and we missed first inning. It was already 7-0 Red Sox, though Yankees made a bit of a run later. Actually neither team was competitive that year. More memorable was June 1955 on a cold night at the Polo Grounds behind third base dugout and meeting Willie Mays during his biggest overall year (the year after the catch). Meeting was arranged by pitcher Jim Hearn; his brother was friend of my father in same Army Reserve Unit. Giants beat the Cubs 4-2 behind Sal “The Barber” Maglie. Sadly, I lost the ball Willie signed when I hit it through a neighbor’s window in south Atlanta. By the way, I still believe Andruw in his prime was better in CF. Perhaps, though, his feel for the direction of the ball also owed a lot to the quality of the Braves’ pitchers putting the ball where they planned. One other special moment worth mentioning is the three hours I spent, purely by chance, hanging out with Mickey Mantle on the top floor of the Oakland, California Hyatt in November, 1988. For some reason, we clicked and just the two of us talked for those several hours.

By Shaun

July 15, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

Steve from OH, no way they would even consider Tex-for-Hinske straight up. But, yes, I think a pitching prospect or two along with Hinske.

By Rick

July 15, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this

Just a correction on Yankee Stadium - this is not the park that Ruth played in . Although it was always called a ” renovation ” when they rebuilt it in 1975 , they actually tore the old park completely down to the foundation and started over. There is not a brick that was there when Ruth played .

So don’t get too nostalgic about it - you are watching a park that was built in 1975 . They put the filigree back on the roof but that is the only thing that is the same .

So the FIELD is the one Ruth played on ( with different dimensions now ) but the park is not .

By TennesseePaul

July 15, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

Hinske would be a nice stop-gap until Heyward is ready or until they can find a better option in a couple of years.

There’s Flowers, but I’m not sure if he’s a real first baseman or not… I do keep reading about Freeman. Perhaps he is a possibility?

By BravesFaninNYC

July 15, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

Just saw the two boys drive down the red carpet. They sent the American League players first with Jeter grabbing the biggest response. Little kids chased after ARods truck wanting autographs which scattered the NYPD to collect them. Of course everyone chanted ‘larry’ at chipper. Although rough responses in the past many ny fans were tossing baseballs at chipper to sign, showing an admirable respect for the future HOF. Had his mom, dad and wife with him. Brian was with his wife. Not much of a reception but I yelled and he gave me a thumbs up. Great guy. Go Braves.

By McFann :Ô:

July 15, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this

Timthebrave He probably needs the rest.

Oh yeah…”Prob’ly” nuthin!

By Supes

July 15, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

If the Braves don’t deal TEX (not saying they should), just saying if they don’t…they probably have no shot at signing him. Yanks will probably give him a blank check, and NY is only a short ‘drive’ away from his home town of Baltimore.

In NY, TEX will be a huge hit, he’s definitely an upgrade over Giambi. (defensively anyways)

If Frank Wren doesn’t turn this into a sellers marker fast…the Braves will not even get anyting close to “market value” for TEX if they trade him before July 31st.

Consider what they gave up, Wren has to swing a similar deal or just keep TEX and hope for the best.

Worst case scenario, you get 2 extra draft pics!

By Random

July 15, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

Thre or four upsides to keeping Tex thru the end of the season:

1) we have a better shot at 2008 post-season with him than without him (si, se puede!);

2.1) we have a better chance to sign him as a free agent if we don’t trade him (I figure — qui sait?);

2.2) if he accepts arbitration, we can probably get him for a year at around $15-16 M (I guess — ¿quien sabe?;

3) two high draft picks are nothing to sneeze at, and possibly better in the long-run than what we’d get in a deadline trade.

By Doc Holliday

July 15, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

Shaun

I agree with you with the part that we have to think ahead……future, etc.

But Im sick about the way braves want to pretend they can win another ring not spending…….

Hey Im against paying players like Santana and Zito and Giambi the amount of money they pay and they see poor performances. It would make any fan, teammate or executive sick.

But look at the Braves. The only position player they made a contract for that has a salary higher than 10M is Chipper and they are underpaying him.

Then there is TEX, a player they pay 12M but he came over with that contract, now they think thats too much and they want to get rid of him.

After that you have Kotsay, they are paying him 7M, to me thats was a bad move, they “knew” he was gonna be injured and they spent 7M.

Among pitching………..

They are paying 14M or more to 3 pitchers……….2 of them are not gonna get 100IP combined between the 2.

Then there is Glavine with 8M who is not gonna pitch 100 innings this year either.

Then they have Soriano with 2.6M………..who wont make 30 appearances this year and they bring Tavarez and his 3.8M (only God knows the reason for that).

As you see, Braves only have 2 regulars that make more than 10M and 80% the money they´ve invested on pitching is on the bench.

To me…….they have not look smart at all.

I have always said TEX is not worth 20M but if he asks for 16, give it to him……….Im not sure if I would give him 18, but think about it.

The reason we are where we are is because they want to solve things and win a WS without spending money, that is a very very tough thing to do, specially if you have Cox making the calls.

How can it hurt to pay TEX what he is asking for…………lets say 18M………..He is earning 12M right now. If Glavine, Smoltz and Hampton are not resigned thats 37M off the books……… giving TEX 6M more than what he is earning now leaves 31M to spend………..Thats is would leave money for at least an ACE and money and maybe a good bat.

Im not sure about Smoltzies money………..is he signed for 2009 already? Even if he is………..we would have 16M if we give TEX what he is asking for……..enough money for a pitcher of the caliber of Hudson. And we dont even need that since JJJ is already a great #2 pitcher. I dont think we need a great pitcher any more. The starting rotation is already covered………..and even more so if what lots of you keep saying that James is a great pitcher but he has perfomed badly because he is injured.

Let Kotsay go………..he is nothing but DL material……….that would free 7M. I would also let Soriano go………..trade him………..he is nothing but DL material also………….that would free up almost 10 M and we wouldnt miss them…………they have been on DL half the season if not more.

By MGL

July 15, 2008 3:49 PM | Link to this

My Yankee Stadium Story - I saw it many times driving up the Major Deegan.

By ernesto

July 15, 2008 3:50 PM | Link to this

Yo Doc. Didn’t read all your post, sorry, but Los Bravos are NOT paying Kotsay 7 mil. Oakland is picking up most of his contract.

By westy12

July 15, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this

Random, surely we aren’t figuring and guessing and making stuff up?

Wow, your hypocrisy knows no bounds!

By Bobby's Cox

July 15, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this

Steve in OH

Davis or McGee from Tampa probably isn’t asking too much. I think they both have some control issues, though they’re both still young. I’d rather have a position player that’s a little more ML ready for Tex, based on what’s available in the offseason. If the braves did want to go with pitching prospects like Davis or McGee, I’d rather have them go with guys with higher K/9 and/or high K/BB rates. More like a David Price.

By Shaun

July 15, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

Doc Holliday, you say the Braves are trying to win without spending, then you name all the bigger contracts they’ve taken on or given. What do you think they took on those contracts for?

Also, I’m almost positive the Braves aren’t responsible for most of Tavarez’s contract.

If Tex asks for around $16M a year, I’d imagine the Braves would give it to him or seriously consider, if it’s the appropriate number of years and without any no-trade clauses.

I’m sure the Braves will spend, when and where they see appropriate. The Braves were in the middle of the pack in payroll last year. They weren’t exactly a cheap team.

You can’t win by out-spending everyone unless maybe you can afford to give out otherwise foolish contracts and you can afford to eat whatever mistakes you make by giving out foolish contracts. So, I don’t see how spending any more than they typically spend would be helpful.

By DAP

July 15, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this

doc holliday Then there is TEX, a player they pay 12M but he came over with that contract, now they think thats too much and they want to get rid of him.

no, the braves sign him to that one-year contract to avoid arbitration this offseason.

After that you have Kotsay, they are paying him 7M, to me thats was a bad move, they “knew” he was gonna be injured and they spent 7M.

as pary of the deal, oakland paud $5mil of kotsay’s salary. the braves are paying $2mil for kotsay this year. do you still think that was a bad deal?

they bring Tavarez and his 3.8M

tavarez was released, so i believe the red sox are paying him the $3.8mil, the braves are paying the minimum for him.

smoltz has a vesting option for 2009 that he will not reach, he will not be under contract for 2009, and the braves will not be obligated to pay him anything.

signing tex for too much still doesnt make sense, even with all the money freed up, because they could spend $18mil a season on a pitcher and a position player and impact the team more than one player would on thier own.

By Doc Holliday

July 15, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

Thats right ernesto……..my bad there.

But thats a point in my favor……….thats what Im talking about……… thats our organizations modus operandi……..picking up injury prone people for less money………….hampton, kotsay, soriano, gonzalez and the list goes on…………thats us……….living on DL because its cheaper.

By nolie

July 15, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

RANDOM

Here is the story on Bowden & Rijo

July 12, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this

Sources: Bowden, Rijo investigated in pair of probes of Dominican signings

By Mark Fainaru-Wada and T.J. Quinn ESPN

Federal authorities and Major League Baseball are investigating Washington Nationals general manager Jim Bowden and special assistant Jose Rijo for their possible roles in a growing financial scandal involving the signing of players from the Dominican Republic, several sources familiar with the probe told ESPN. [+] Enlarge Jim Bowden

Mitchell Layton/Getty Images

GM Jim Bowden says he and other Nationals officials have spoken to both the FBI and MLB’s investigators.

Anyone implicated could face felony fraud charges, sources familiar with the investigation said.

Numerous MLB employees in the United States and the Dominican Republic are under suspicion in the probe, which allegedly involves the skimming of signing money allocated for Dominican prospects. Bowden, a 23-year veteran of MLB front offices and a general manager on and off since 1992, is the highest-ranking official known to be under investigation.

Reached in his office Friday evening, Bowden said he and other Nationals officials have spoken to both the FBI and MLB’s investigators, as have officials from other clubs. But he said neither the FBI nor Major League Baseball has told him he is suspected of taking part in the scheme or in any way suspected of wrongdoing. Bowden said he was never asked about his own activities, and denied having any role in the scandal.

“No, I’ve certainly not gotten that approach from baseball or the FBI,” he said. “There’s obviously no truth to that. As far as the rest of this goes, they’re probably better questions for the FBI or baseball.”

Bowden would not say what he discussed with investigators.

“We completely support trying to clean up the problems that have taken place, but there’s no truth to any involvement regarding anyone here,” Bowden said.

Rijo, who is in the Dominican Republic, did not respond to a message left for him through the club.

[+] Enlarge Jose Rijo

Rich Pilling/ MLB Photos/Getty Images

Jose Rijo, a former All-Star pitcher with the Cincinnati Reds, was the MVP of the 1990 World Series.

Bowden, in an interview with the Associated Press during the Nationals’ game Friday night against the Houston Astros, reiterated: “At no time when I met with the FBI investigators were questions revolving around myself or Jose Rijo.”

Asked whether he had any knowledge of any improprieties within the Nationals organization, Bowden said: “Absolutely not.”

The investigation could be particularly embarrassing for Rijo, who was born and raised in the Dominican Republic. Rijo, a former All-Star pitcher with the Cincinnati Reds who was the MVP of the 1990 World Series, is also the son-in-law of Hall of Fame pitcher Juan Marichal, who once served as the Dominican Minster of Sport.

MLB sources said FBI and baseball investigators have been speaking to numerous officials, however they said Bowden and Rijo were among those specifically under investigation for their suspected involvement.

One source, an MLB official speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the investigation was “in its infancy” and involved allegations about several teams and their employees. It was unclear whether Bowden and Rijo are suspected of receiving money or whether they are believed to have played some other role in the scheme.

The investigation into Bowden and others stems from a tip MLB received several months ago alleging that then-White Sox senior personnel director Dave Wilder and two of his scouts were skimming bonus money paid to Dominican signees, according to the MLB source. Wilder was stopped while trying to re-enter the United States with roughly $40,000 in cash after a trip to the Dominican Republic, a source told ESPN, sparking a broader inquiry. Wilder could not be reached for comment.

In mid-May, Wilder and scouts Victor Mateo and Domingo Toribio were fired by the White Sox, who revealed that federal authorities also were looking into the matter.

Bowden, 46, was the youngest GM in the game’s history when the Reds hired the then-31 year old in 1992. He was fired by the Reds in 2003 season and worked for ESPN before being hired by the Nationals as their GM in November 2004. Bowden and Rijo worked together in the Reds’ organization for six seasons.

The Chicago Tribune previously reported MLB and federal investigators were examining whether Wilder and the scouts had taken cuts off the top of bonuses paid to Dominican players. The Los Angeles Times reported recently that federal agents were interviewing representatives from every Major League team as part of its probe.

After MLB received its tip in March, its investigations department launched a wide-ranging examination of signing practices in the Dominican — a probe that has led to allegations involving employees of several clubs, including Bowden and other Nationals employees, sources said.

MLB also added four Latin American investigators to its staff, each with a background in drug enforcement. At least two of those new hires have been working in the Dominican regularly during the past three months, visiting every club’s Dominican camp within the past month.

The MLB investigations unit is “looking at everything, A to Z, speaking to players, scouts, people that run the academies,” the source said. The unit also is delving into the issue of access to, and distribution of, steroids to ballplayers in the Dominican.

The case of Wilder and the ensuing probe is distinguished from previous improprieties in the Dominican because it involves MLB team employees, rather than simply Dominican street agents, known as “buscones,” or “finders,” who routinely have taken exorbitant shares of bonuses from their players.

By Bobbymahlon

July 15, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

DOB— Explain to me why all we hear is how great Tex is and how much money he is going to make, that being true why isn’t he good enough to make the National League All Star Team ?

By Shamus Thacker

July 15, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

Crazy Cats: Think about what a bargain a 7 year, $152 million dollar contract for Tex will be 5 years from now. If the market continues to grow at 10%, a similar player 5 years from now with a 5 WAR will be receiving a 7 year, $243 million dollar contract.

Reality check, Crazy Cats, you’re figures could end up being azz-backwards. If gas reaches ten bucks per gallon, general world anarchy is gonna play heavily into that rate. Might be something more akin to $7 per year, for 243 years…

By Shaun

July 15, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

Bobby’s, I’m sure David Price is not an option. The only way the Rays would even consider trading him is if they could get a package that includes a pitching prospect as impressive and as highly regarded as Price. In which case, a trade wouldn’t really make any sense.

They might give up Davis or McGee, because they aren’t as highly regarded, if they feel this is their best shot to make the playoffs.

One thing that may make it tough, Carlos Pena is likely in their plans for the next few years. So Tex and Pena would have to alternate at first and DH, which is sort of a waste. It’s more likely the Rays would go after a player more suitable for outfield and/or DH.

By Doc Holliday

July 15, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

Also, I’m almost positive the Braves aren’t responsible for most of Tavarez’s contract.

Thats what we are all about……….picking up leftovers….for 10 cents.

Im sure you have to take risks with some pitchers and some positions, inserting unproven players or oldies………but this is ridiculous.

Too many old guys, too many leftovers, too many injury prone players, too many rookies or extremely young players.

No wonder why we cant win, specially close games.

By kirknga

July 15, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

I believe, the 1st basemen that Shaun listed are irrelevant. The starting point for Tex’s contract is Giambi’s not any of those other guys. Giambi went from $13 million to $20 million, and is now slightly over $23 million.

Expect Tex to follow a similar path.

It’s unfortunate, if true, that the Braves are using some future period as a reason not to sign Tex. Hudson, Smoltz, and Chipper come off the books in that 2010-2013 period as well don’t they? It’s not as if the Braves will have committed to paying any of them beyond the next 4 years.

So saying they are concerned about the next 5 years is good business, but it is no excuse for not signing great players to replace the great players we will be losing during that period.

Tex’s contract, could be written in such a way to allow the Braves payroll flexibility.

It’s starting to sound to me that we’re now in a game where the Braves say they want to contend, say they will have a budget higher than that of Time-Warner, yet will suspiciously and consistently be 1-2 pieces away from really being a great team.

Great teams, that endure don’t do it on the cheap. While you certainly don’t need to spend what the big market teams do, you will have to have some players command some gaudy salaries. Remember when Chipper’s salary was thought to be an example of “overpaying”?

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

Well that’s an hour of my life I’ll never get back. Made the mistake of taking the media shuttle, opting for AC over the speed of the subway.

We’ll be taking the subway back tonight.

By Bobby's Cox

July 15, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

Shaun:

The first time i mentioned Prices name it was a joke becuz i know Tampa wouldn’t do it. The 2nd time I mentioned his name, it was for comparison purposes, i.e. if the braves trade Tex for pitching prospects, it better be a prospect with a high K/9 ratio.

My Tex posts today have all said that the braves would need to trade tex for ML ready position players, not pitchers. The braves already have good pitching prospects. Their needs for next year will 1B, an outfield RH power bat, a veteran reliever, and maybe 1 starter. I agree with you that the braves need to plan for 2010-2013, not for 2009. I think they should use some of that offseason money to lock Escobar, and if they were to go the Loney route, to lock in Loney as well.

By ncscoots

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

My highest offer would be about $11.5M a year for 3 years, maybe a fourth option year.

In other words, offer the guy a pay cut. Shaun, that might work in some parallel universe, but, in this one, it returns only derogatory laughter from the player and his agent.

You, as do many here, make the mistake of equating cost with value. The two are not the same thing, and never will be. The thought of “two $10MM players instead of one $20MM player” is typical of that mindset, as if having a dozen suits from Men’s Wearhouse is better than having a single one from Barney’s (in honor of our New York State Of Mind this week).

There’s a point of diminishing returns that is reached pretty quickly on populating the squad with “cheap, young talent”, regardless of the timeframe in which they’ll reach their prime. You’re seeing some of that this year. No fudge factor. No room for error. Because expecting that ALL the young players will play well, on a team littered with them, is rank and unsupportable hope. That’s why the value of a player such as Teixeira, on such a squad, exceeds the raw cost that you and many here so anxiously debate.

There are way too many unknown (and unseen, by fans) factors for anyone to have any idea if the Braves want to sign Teixeira or if he wants to sign with them, the price the Braves might be willing to pay, or the price Teixeira might be willing to take. But pass on him, because you’re looking to a window of five years in the future? No, thanks. Too many things can happen in baseball while you’re waiting for a predicted timeframe of “prime”. Ask the Indians. Best to try to keep players of proven performance when you can. And despite the gnashing and wailing of a few bloggers, that’s Teixeira, down to his toes, and that kind of value can’t replaced by a quantity of lesser parts.

Wear a cheap suit, and that’s exactly what it looks like you’re wearing. Having a bunch of them in your closet can’t change that.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

The overall atmosphere in the city has been terrific for this event. Area outside the stadium is filled with folks in jerseys and other team garb from every team, and the area around my hotel in Manhattan was, too.

They just kicked on the music here at the ballpark, got some Springsteen to start it out, “Waiting on a Sunny Day.”

No players on the field yet, but will be shortly. Just a couple hundred hacks and tv types out there now.

By Doc Holliday

July 15, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

DAP

If Braves dont sign TEX, I will guarantee you that theyll pick someone like Sid Bream………they just dont get it…….they keep going trying to make a team out of nowhere……..

It wouldnt surprise me if they let TEX go and then pick up Frank Thomas, Richie Sexon or Jim Thome.

Or

Retry Thorman………if he still is in this organization.

By Doc Holliday

July 15, 2008 4:43 PM | Link to this

*Bobbymahlon *

There is not enough room for all solid players to go into the ASG.

TEX is as solid as it gets, all around player.

Period.

Dont ever think chippers success this year has nothing to do with TEXs presence.

By brent a.

July 15, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

Just for perspective:

In 2000, A-Rod signed a 10-year, $252 million contract with the Texas Rangers.

If you factored in an annual inflation rate of 2.8%, then it would take $314.3 million in today’s dollars to sign a player to a 10-year contract of “equal value”.

So, if Tex were to get 10 years and $200 million (I don’t think he’d get more than 7 years, but please play along), then that contract would be worth approximately 36% less, in today’s dollars, than the one Rodriguez signed with Tom Hicks.

Now, you can twist and turn that all you want, by talking about A-Rod’s contract being a bad contract, or people exercising more fiscal restraint today, and also the obvious factor that Teixeira is not the same player A-Rod is. Nonetheless, you also have to know that Scott Boras doesn’t care about those last factors, but is more concerned with what players have gotten, are getting, and what he knows his guy is worth.

Bottom Line: I look for Tex to sign a mega-deal, and while offering him $15 - $16 million a year is fine, I just don’t think that gets us anywhere.

Make Tex an offer that fits into the Braves plans, and if he doesn’t want it, then please let him go and don’t think twice about it.

By lewie

July 15, 2008 4:49 PM | Link to this

bobby’s cox

i think that we could swing Nady from Pitt for one of our young pitchers on the 40man + another prospect or two…maybe they’d want morton+ which would leave us with

huddy, jj, jojo, campy,??? and give us a solid young 1b in loney and a dude who absolutely rakes against lefties in nady (and plays LF, RF, 1B)

i’d let mac hit 4th and rotate loney, nady, kj, frenchie behind him….dangerous lineup

By spotts

July 15, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

DOB, why trade Tex? If there’s going to be a trade, I think it should be to add a power hitting outfielder. This team has way too much talent and potential to just give up when we’re only 6.5 back.

Second, we’re not going to have Hampton’s salary next year, and maybe not Smoltz’ either. Those, in addition to Tex’s current salary add up to over $40 million. I think we can afford him. Granted we’ll be responsible for that salary for a few years, but he’s a star.

And with guys like Rohrbough, Locke, and Hanson coming up, we’re fine with pitching (the 5 we have now aren’t doing too bad either).

By TennesseePaul

July 15, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this

opting for AC over the speed of the subway.

The #4 train has AC… just waiting for it is the issue. No AC in the tunnels.

By Congrats Chipper & Mac

July 15, 2008 4:54 PM | Link to this

Did you do the parade thing, DOB?

By lewie

July 15, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this

bobby’s cox

i’ve also loved the way bradley plays for years….he’s absolutely nuts, but can flatout rake….i’d take him in a ny minute and watch as he settles into a nice spot on the team, playing for a manager who’s regarded as being great w/players

By Crazy Stats Katz

July 15, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

Reality check, Crazy Cats, you’re figures could end up being azz-backwards. If gas reaches ten bucks per gallon, general world anarchy is gonna play heavily into that rate. Might be something more akin to $7 per year, for 243 years…

Yeah, you’re right. It’s always possible we could fall like the Romans. Sounds like you’re counting on it though. Would hate to be you. Do you like anyone or anything Shamus? Will you live your entire life like you’re going to hell in a handbasket with the Easter bunny sharting on your face?

By Random

July 15, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

keylargo: “I going to defend DAP with his ESPN article.”

Defend him from what or whom?

(DAP, man, I begged ya, man, I begged ya.)

+++

westy12 —

Number one, dig a little and find out what the phrase “your and idiot” means on this blog. It is not a personal attack.

Second, my comments were never about you (and your priorities?), only ever about what you were saying. (Except I did say you had never been in the position to turn down a $150 M contract and never would be — was I wrong there?)

“we’ll conveviently ignore that” — yeah, like you’ve “conveniently” ignored every question put to you?

“My informed opinion” — please disclose to us by what exactly your opinion is informed? Cite your sources — this is the last time I’ll ask.

“The Rangers’ salary offer has been documented also, so a ballpark market value of 150 mil is not that far off from what several teams might be willing to pay, with 1-2 probably going higher… . Nothing made up there.” Do you not understand that that was a noncompetitive offer, and can in no way be taken as representative of the offers he will get when he is allowed to negotiate with more than one team? One offer simply cannot create “a ballpark market value”. Why can you not understand that? And what you “made up” is Tex’s reasons for declining that contract offer. Or is he one of your sources?

“Joe Simpson has also made comments that allude to “Tesh’s” arrogance, saying that it’s not acceptable for a player at his salary to take an approach that the first part of the season doesn’t matter, that his horrible starts are part of some master plan.” When and where — can you give me a link?

The rest of your post does not merit comment.

Listen, it has become painfully apparent that you don’t read a word I write, or if you do, it’s all of a piece that passeth your understanding.

I give up — I quit. You win. No mas.

I’ll leave you with the comments of a couple of other fellas, which I assume you also did not either read or understand.

N8 (July 14, 2008 2:23 PM):

“westy

“I’m not sure Tex having Boras as an agent, says anything about his character… .

“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… .

“But to say Tex has no character because he employs Boras is silly.”

ATLFAN (July 14, 2008 2:00 PM ):

“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 ernesto

July 15, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

Every subway car I’ve ever been on has AC in the summer, if it doesn’t, you switch cars at the next stop.

By Quack Quack

July 15, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this

I think Tex is worth in the $10M a year range. I think he’ll probably get around $12-16M a year for at least 4-6 years.

My highest offer would be about $11.5M a year for 3 years, maybe a fourth option year. Shaun

surely you jest. 11.5 Mil for three years? That’s about as foolish a thing as I have ever read from you. He is worth WAY more than 10 mil and will receive a lot more that the 16 mil that you are predicting.

By DAP

July 15, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

doc holliday i hope that doesnt happen. i want to see the braves be big players in the free agent market. if they dont sign tex to a 5 year $75 type contract (which he wont sign) i think the braves should sign two players out of: bradley, hinske, orlando hudson, blalock, burnett, dempster, sheets, garland, perez, sabathia, wolf…

and they should sign one of: fuentes, affeldt, cruz, ohman, wheeler.

and i believe they could sign many combinations of three players from the list i just made and pay all three of them per year the same that some team (yankees) is going to pay tex per year.

my perfect offseason (that is still within reality) is for the braves to sign bradley, sheets, and ohman.

By Lew

July 15, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

Scoots-Dude, The Armani Suit hasn’t gotten us on the Cover Of GQ, yet, either, has it.

By bravos2249

July 15, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

In 2000, A-Rod signed a 10-year, $252 million contract with the Texas Rangers.

If you factored in an annual inflation rate of 2.8%, then it would take $314.3 million in today’s dollars to sign a player to a 10-year contract of “equal value”.

Ahhemm LAST YEAR …Rodriguez receives salaries of $27 million next year, $32 million in 2009 and 2010, $31 million in 2011, $29 million in 2012, $28 million in 2013, $25 million in 2014, $21 million in 2015 and $20 million in each of the final two years.

His $32 million salaries in 2009 and 2010 will be the largest for one season in major league history… Another “A-Bomb For A-Rod” Contract

By Crazy Stats Katz

July 15, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this

I just don’t see Tesh play with any passion

I used to think that about Tex as well but I’ve heard him curse quite a few times after a poor at bat, seen him throw his bat, loved the way he bear hugged the Perry guy after his first hit, and I believe Tex plays defense with the intensity of a middle linebacker.

It’s very rare to see a player who’s that good on offense pride himself so much on defense. Watch him sometime when he goes to cover first. He goes hard. And his head is always in the play. What he lacks in passion, he substitutes with an intense pride. You can see that especially in the way he plays defense.

By Original Jon

July 15, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this

lewie No WAY you trade Morton and a prospect or TWO for Nady!!! Just no way in hell. Not even sure if I would trade Morton straight up for Nady. Just don’t know the potential a guy like Morton may have, he has plenty of upside and he is just now realizing it. I would give them Chuck James, and Gorkyz Hernandez for Nady.

By Tom in NYC

July 15, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this

Got a chance to go to the parade during my lunch break at work (yea I took a 2 hour lunch break). That was amazing! Once in a lifetime opportunity to see a collection of hall of famers and major league stars all together like that. I got a spot in front too so was very close to the action. Great experince overall and McCann waved when he saw my Braves hat.

By brent a.

July 15, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

Crazy Stats Kat

I want you to know that my last post was in no way intended to step on your toes, or even try to piggy-back off your well-developed analysis you had been providing today.

In fact, I had not read any of what you had written, until I posted what I did above.

10% growth. wow!!

I was just talking about regular inflation.

Keep up the good work.

By ernesto

July 15, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this

Scoots - I would hardly call 2 $10 million dollar players suits from the Men’s Warehouse.

Your analogy is closer to - do you spend most of your clothing allowance on the most expensive suit out on the marketplace, then go super cheap with all your other clothes. Or give yourself a nice all around wardrobe - spreading your money evenly.

By Random

July 15, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this

Thanks, nolie — don’t know how I missed that.

By McFann

July 15, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

Tom in NYC Great experince overall and McCann waved when he saw my Braves hat.

Sweet! Ya got me jealous! ; )

By Yunel Lillibridge

July 15, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

Was the MRI on ESCOBAR’s shoulder cancelled?

By brent a.

July 15, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this

bravos2249,

the $27 million A-Rod made LAST YEAR (as you phrased) was still part of his original contract with the Rangers (which I’m sure you knew).

He only made $21 million in 2001.

I guess I just don’t understand the “Ahhemm” at the beginning of your post.

By Brian

July 15, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

” Fleet Week ” April 1988. I was a 21 year old kid in the US Navy living a dream. I was in the right place at the right time our first day there. We had just moored and i was working to set up our gangway ( entrance from pier to ship ) and a welcoming crew from NYC boarded. Among many things they had a handful of Yankees tickets for that evening. Needless to say I got tickets for my buddies and myself. In a alcohol induced haze, the four of us were the biggest Yankee fans of the night. Funny, considering that the other 3 guys that went were from southern states as well. In our cracker jack uniforms and our deep southern accents we sang ” New York… New York ” from behind 1st base all night. The aura, mystique and beauty of Yankee Stadium coupled with the generosity shown by all the Yankee fans to 4 rednecks from the deep south will always be with me.

By woogidy

July 15, 2008 5:34 PM | Link to this

A $22 mil a year deal for Tex will look like a bargain in 2-3 years when Berkman, Pujols, Derek Lee, and Ryan Howard all sign new contracts. 7yrs $160 mil would be a deal he couldn’t resist.

By bravos2249

July 15, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this

**One thing the media and everyone doesn’t know is that the Rangers made Tex that offer two weeks before he became a Brave TWO WEEKS. What kind of player after this would sign regardless of the money when you know another team wants you: ” Mark said he wanted to win with the Texas Rangers, but it was going to take time to determine where the Rangers were going. They wanted him to make a decision now. The club made their decision. I don’t think there is any ill will.”

And we all know JS. He was probably talking to Texas waay before they offered Tex that deal but after Mark turned it down the Rangers owner had the nerve to say this: “I’m disappointed he turned it down, but I think we did everything we could to keep him.

Everyone thinks that Tex was the bad guy, but I just don’t see how a guy that is devoted like he was and he wanted to win with them and then it’s like they didn’t want to keep him until they found out someone else wanted him.**

By Doc Holliday

July 15, 2008 5:43 PM | Link to this

DAP

Sheets would be the best sign, he costs us 2 games in the standings every year. And he would make our rotation virtually the best in baseball……….SHEETS+HUDSON+JJJ+JOJO+CAMPILLO/MORTON, that is by far the best top to bottom and very low injury risk rotation.

Ohman if bobby was not dumb, he would be one of the best setup man we have had sin 1990 and one of the best in baseball.

Bradley What is that guy for? moving chipper to 1B??? or playing him 1B???

By TennesseePaul

July 15, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this

Every subway car I’ve ever been on has AC in the summer, if it doesn’t, you switch cars at the next stop.

True. Every car is fitted for AC, but why wait for the next stop? Just go through the door to the next car… I know I did when I got on the A train… Thought I’d scored a car with some seats only to find it 110 degrees of uncomfortable. Walked to the end door, opened it, slid open the next car’s end door and stepped into a crowded yet cool car…

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this

Just got done talking to Chipper down in the clubhouse. He and Mac are having a lot of fun. He said Mac is “awestruck” and should be, that this game is special and all.

I think Brooks Robinson, George Brett and Mike Schmidt might be among those going out to third base at start of game in this ceremony they’re doing. George was in the clubhouse just now when I was down there.

It’s funny, Mac’s locker is also the messiest here, just like at home. I was standing there waiting for him and an attendant game by, noticed Mac’s jersey crumpled up on the floor, and reached down and hung it up for him.

I told the guy, you see why they call him “Heap” at home.

By AGTfan

July 15, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this

If gas reaches ten bucks per gallon, general world anarchy is gonna play heavily into that rate.

Reality check Shamus. If gas reaches $10 a gallon, we aren’t going to care how much any baseball player makes. Most of will just be wondering where the next meal is coming from.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox turned down an invitation to coach in this game tonight, but there is a Brave wearing No. 6 — Brian McCann.

Aramis Ramirez is wearing 16, McCann’s usual number.

By Hit, Heap, Hit!

July 15, 2008 6:01 PM | Link to this

Haha thanks for the update. Soak it in, Heap!

By McFann :Ô:

July 15, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this

I was standing there waiting for him and an attendant game by, noticed Mac’s jersey crumpled up on the floor, and reached down and hung it up for him.

I told the guy, you see why they call him “Heap” at home.

Great stuff, Chief! That’s hilarious!

I wanna thank you for all the great little tidbits you’ve shared with us this past two days. You’ve told some great ones.

So…THANKS!

By Michael Procton

July 15, 2008 6:04 PM | Link to this

Shocking, that Cox would have gotten that invite in spite of how terrible a manager he is, eh Braves “fans?”

By McFann :Ô:

July 15, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox turned down an invitation to coach in this game tonight, but there is a Brave wearing No. 6 — Brian McCann.

We were wondering what they did when players had the same number. So Mac had to switch this year, eh?

He had 16 the past two years, right? I know Lo Duca’s number 16, too…

By Robert B

July 15, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this

DOB

WHAT WERE THE RESULTS OF THE ESCOBAR MRI

By westy12

July 15, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this

Random, you just asked the same questions and reposted the same posts that I wrote several lengthy responses to. Congratulations. I certainly aspire to master your “Chinese water torture” blog debate technique. Maybe someday I’ll even be bestowed with imaginary awards and free art from my fellow hack-blog buddy-Tesh superfans. Keep your fingers crossed for me.

I won’t bother to repost my answers to yours and other questions, it’s all there, as you know. Well, except for “giving you the link” to a quote made on a TV broadcast. (Are you serious? Pretty lame, even for you. Others have mentioned Simpson’s quotes here, so consider this blog to be your link.) Also seems like a waste of time to repost those in agreement with my reasoned argument against your boy Tesh. My ego simply isn’t as fragile as yours, if you feel the need to collect all pro-Random posts. And admittedly, I’m not the fan you are, because I don’t feel the need to collect pro-Tesh posts either. (By the way, you never answered my question about Tesh. Tesh? Tesh? Really? Oh, nevermind.) You’re absolutely right, Random, I’m not worthy.

Your hypocrisy and irrational militant fandom have been exposed for all to see, if they so choose, so we’ll leave it there. Thanks for playing.

By SaltyDawg

July 15, 2008 6:14 PM | Link to this

From the Globe for anyone who is interested… *Theo Epstein just responded to an e-mail I sent him in regard to the Mark Teixeira trade rumors that have been floating around the past two days. The ESPN report was that Sox and Braves were discussing Teixeira for Kevin Youkilis and Craig Hansen.

Asked if there was anything to it, Epstein responded, “No, not at all.”*

ESPN’s Peter Gammons was the first to report that the talks had taken place, and it is true that the Braves asked for first baseman Kevin Youkilis and Craig Hansen in return. Would the Sox make that deal? Not at the moment, but the message they left with the Braves was keep us in mind. The Braves, according to those sources, have their doubts that the Sox would move Youkilis, because of his ability to play both first and third and his defensive skills at both positions.

By Invitation

July 15, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

Shocking, that Cox would have gotten that invite in spite of how terrible a manager he is, eh Braves “fans?”

I don’t know Michael, there was a 71 year old guy from NC got an invitation to throw BP in the Home Run derby last night. And like Cox, he did a great job during the preliminaries, but lost when it came down to taking the hardware home.

By Hit, Heap, Hit!

July 15, 2008 6:17 PM | Link to this

Ditto what McFann said. Your updates and comments are the reason I check this blog several times a day.

By westy12

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

I’m with you there, Katz. Tex is fun to watch defensively.

By Fred

July 15, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this

BostonBravesGirl, I feel your pain! I lived in the Bronx in 1996 and the obnoxious New Yorkers kept me up all night blowing their car horns. It definitely rubbed salt in my wounds. Thankfully, I returned to Atlanta in 1998 and to quote the late, great Lewis Grizzard, I have “nailed my feet to the ground.”

By keylargo

July 15, 2008 6:22 PM | Link to this

wogidy

I’m not picking on you wogidy, but you brought the same stuff to the table a few days ago and the numbers have not changed.

You mentioned Puhols, Lee, Brerkman and Howard. Plain and simple, Tex is the fifth best on that list.

Puhols is on a 7/$100M contract with a $16M option in 2011.

Berkman has a 6/$85M contract with a $15M option in 2011.

Lee has a 5/$65M contract with a $13M option in 2010.

Ryan Howard has a 1/$10 contract. He is not yet a free agent.

So we have the best three first basemen in the National Leauge making $15M, $16M, and $13M in 2011, 2011, 2010 respectively.

Tell me how Tex is worth $23M in 2009, 2010 and 2011 Wogidy.

OR ANYONE ELSE? I would like to see the comps(comparables).

By ernesto

July 15, 2008 6:24 PM | Link to this

TPaul - b/c passing through the trains like that, unless directed by a police officer or MTA worker, is illegal. ;)

By Chop Chop

July 15, 2008 6:27 PM | Link to this

I would pay big money to be in the AL clubhouse to hear Ichiro fire the troops up.

Just seems like it would be really awesome to hear Ichiro going crazy and dropping F-bombs on the National League before the team takes the field, doesn’t it?

By SaltyDawg

July 15, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this

ernesto—- **Scoots - I would hardly call 2 $10 million dollar players suits from the Men’s Warehouse.

Your analogy is closer to - do you spend most of your clothing allowance on the most expensive suit out on the marketplace, then go super cheap with all your other clothes. Or give yourself a nice all around wardrobe - spreading your money evenly.**

Well said. I think that is what so many people don’t understand. Like Texas wouldn’t have loved to keep A-Rod? The fact is you can’t field a decent team when a huge portion of you payroll is locked up in one player and one player cannot win ball games all by himself. Just ask Chipper.

By SaltyDawg

July 15, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this

I certainly aspire to master your “Chinese water torture” blog debate technique.

Priceless

By McFann :Ô:

July 15, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this

Your updates and comments are the reason I check this blog several times a day.

Same here!

Just checked. McCann and Lo Duca both used #16 in ‘06.

Hey, but I have no problem with him using #6. Did he choose it, or was it assigned to him? Thanks!

By SaltyDawg

July 15, 2008 6:39 PM | Link to this

Just ask Chipper.

Did not mean to imply that Chipper is a financial burden. Quite the opposite. My point was that one player, no matter how great, cannot carry a team without a decent supporting cast.

By Coach ( Lets Go Braves In 2010 ??????)

July 15, 2008 6:52 PM | Link to this

The Braves preemptive effort at trading Tex to the Red Sox was smart. It lets everyone know that Teixeira is on the trade market and allows for a possible bidding war later on this month. Good move by Frank Wren !

By TexasBrave

July 15, 2008 6:58 PM | Link to this

For those of you have not seen Carrol’s burst on the AJC. The MRI revealed that Escobar’s shoulder is inflamed and is day to day.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 7:11 PM | Link to this

Here’s the brief that Carroll filed on Escobar:

An MRI on Yunel Escobar’s left shoulder has showed an inflamed rotator cuff and the young shortstop is considered day-to-day, according to Braves spokesman Brad Hainje.

That’s a breath of fresh air for the Braves, who already have 10 players on the disabled list and head into the second half of the season trying to get players back from injury, not add to the list.

The Braves are hopeful that the three games Escobar missed in San Diego plus four games off during the All-Star break will have him back in the lineup before long. The Braves open the second half with a three-game series at home against the Nationals on Friday.

Escobar injured his shoulder diving back into first base on June 24 and missed the next five games. After receiving a cortisone shot, he returned for seven games before re-injuring his shoulder tagging a runner Wednesday in Los Angeles. He then missed the weekend series in San Diego.

Escobar is hitting .286 with six homers and 35 RBIs.

By Crazy Stats Katz

July 15, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this

You mentioned Puhols, Lee, Brerkman and Howard. Plain and simple, Tex is the fifth best on that list. Puhols is on a 7/$100M contract with a $16M option in 2011. Berkman has a 6/$85M contract with a $15M option in 2011. Lee has a 5/$65M contract with a $13M option in 2010. Ryan Howard has a 1/$10 contract. He is not yet a free agent. So we have the best three first basemen in the National Leauge making $15M, $16M, and $13M in 2011, 2011, 2010 respectively. Tell me how Tex is worth $23M in 2009, 2010 and 2011

Howard is about a 5 WAR kind of player. 4.5 Batting Wins. +1 WAR for being a first baseman. -0.5 for being a terrible first baseman. A 5 WAR guy last year could have expected a 1 year, $22 million dollar contract as a free agent. A general rule to play with is that first year arb eligible players get 40% of what they could make as a free agent. 10/22 is 45%. So there you go. If Howard was a free agent instead of arb eligible, he would be receiving a 7 year, $152 million to 7 year, $175 million contract.

Berkman was about a 5 WAR guy himself when he signed the 6 year, $85 million contract in 2005. At that time, teams were paying $3.30 per WAR. According to the scale as a 5 WAR guy receiving a 6 year contract at the time, he should have signed a 6 year, $92 million contract. But they also bought out his last year of arb eligibility. So that lopped off a few millions right there. That’s how he ended up with a 6 year, $85 million dollar contract. If he was a free agent this upcoming offseason, that same 6 year, $85 million contract would get him 6 years, $135 million dollars.

I described all the Pujols factors in detail above. Pujols has that 7 year, $100 million contract that he signed as a first year arb eligible player. About $25 million was taken out due to the arb years. So, the contract was essentially a 7 year, $123 million contract in the 2004 free agency market. That same contract would be worth 7 years, $198 million in the upcoming 2009 free agency market.

Derrek Lee has that 5 year, $65 million contract that he signed in 2006 because that’s the kind of player he was in 2006. He had only had one monster season. For the most part, he was a 4 WAR player at a time when teams werre paying $3.63 mil per WAR. If you go down the tango scale, a 4 WAR player in 2006 when teams were paying $3.63 mil per WAR, on a 5 year contract, could have expected to receive $65 million. Today, as a 4 WAR player, he could be expected to receive 5 years, $86 million.

So Tex will be get more raw money than those other guys, not because he is more valuable than those other guys but because has hit the market at a later point after growth in the market when he is a free agent and not just settling with the team as an arb eligible player.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 7:16 PM | Link to this

Had a Boston writer tell me while ago that a high-ranking Red Sox official told him there was nothing to the Tex rumor. Thing is, both this guy and the ones who’ve reported it, Gammons and my man Gordon Edes, are all reporters I trust, who all have good sources.

From the Braves’ end, I’m getting mixed reactions, some totally downplaying it and another saying he believes Braves called Red Sox, but only to sort of feel them out just in case they decide to trade Tex in a couple weeks.

By David O'Brien

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

Braves apparently were displeased the story got out. There’s validity to it, I’m confident after speaking to several people.

But getting distinct impression Braves aren’t going to trade Tex if they don’t think they’re out of it.

By Shamus Thacker

July 15, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this

I’m just a bare-bones realist Crazy Stats. You seem to be the one with the anger management prob…

By bravos2249

July 15, 2008 7:36 PM | Link to this

I think that McCann and Ramirez had to have different numbers because they could and probably would be in the game at the same time…since both are the 2nd backups at each spot…LoDuca and Mac was okay because both were Catchers….Mac must feel extra “good” seeing as players love Bobby.

brenta

if you actually CLICKED on the little blue thing and read it AROD got that new contract last year and is making 27 million this year. As I hope you know

By Steve from OH

July 15, 2008 7:40 PM | Link to this

Bobby’s, Shaun:

I agree that McGee and Davis probably aren’t too much, but I doubt they’d give us a position guy like Reid Brignac in the deal. Maybe Hinske, McGee, and a guy like Desmond Jennings?

By Crazy Stats Katz

July 15, 2008 7:49 PM | Link to this

Braves apparently were displeased the story got out. There’s validity to it, I’m confident after speaking to several people.

Those Boston people always run their mouths. This is the second time the Braves have been burnt by the loose lips with the Red Sox. THey did the same thing with Andruw Jones two years ago.

By keylargo

July 15, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this

Crazy Stats Katz

About the only thing you said I agree with is the name you post under.

Is this chart and all the WAR numbers etc. put out by the players union as a guide for proposed salary demands? I’m serious.

In the mean time, I’ll do what any confused blogger would do.

SHAUN!!!!

What’s your take on this?

By Hit, Heap, Hit!

July 15, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this

Nice to see Chipper, his wife and parents get some time on the red carpet “highlight” show as well as a lady all decked out in Braves gear in the crowd shot.

By McFann :Ô:

July 15, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this

bravos2249—

That’s a good point.

They did it again! They just interviewed Not wRight again! Sheeeesh!!

By bravos2249

July 15, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this

DOB

IDK if you can see but, I’m guessing only the backup players or starters with the same number may have to change their numbers…unless it’s the same as a pitcher…anyway are Morneau and Varitek wearing different numbers too since both are 33?

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this

Chipper said his dad got to meet Willie Mays, Ernie Banks and Mike Schmidt today.

“He’s in hog heaven,” he said.

By I ♥ Barry

July 15, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this

Any sign of Barry Bonds, all time home run leader, at the all star game?

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this

Actually, McCann’s wearing 16. It’s wrong on roster.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 8:10 PM | Link to this

Wait till you guys see the dozens of Hall of Famers who just walked acros the field to their positions, while you were on a commercial break.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

They showed highlights of all or most of those guys during the long commercial break. Very cool.

The Hammer and Knucksie out there in Braves caps.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 8:16 PM | Link to this

This is goosebump-inducing stuff, man. Awesome to be here.

By Braveheart

July 15, 2008 8:21 PM | Link to this

Over at third base, might be 6 of the 7 best third baseman of all time. All that is missing is Eddie Mathews. You got Brett, Brooks, Chipper, Arod, Schmidt, Boggs all in one spot. That’s freaking incredible. Someone better take some pictures. .

By DAP

July 15, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this

doc holliday Bradley What is that guy for? moving chipper to 1B??? or playing him 1B???

milton bradley can play all three outfield positions.

By The Goche

July 15, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this

lewie *i think that we could swing Nady from Pitt for one of our young pitchers on the 40man + another prospect or two…maybe they’d want morton+ which would leave us with

huddy, jj, jojo, campy,??? and give us a solid young 1b in loney and a dude who absolutely rakes against lefties in nady (and plays LF, RF, 1B)

i’d let mac hit 4th and rotate loney, nady, kj, frenchie behind him….dangerous lineup*

no way they’d offer morton for Nady, they are in love with Morton…is he a superstar? probably not, but he’s pretty good, no way Nady would get him from them, at least not Morton and any other prospect of note.

Let’s not forget that Nady is one season removed from OPSing .806, that his career OPS is .789, and that over the three seasons last three seasons (not including this one) Diaz actually has a better OPS than Nady.

Before this season Nady just looked like Diaz with a bit more power and a much lower average.

Yeah, I think Nady is good, but he is fooling a lot of people with this first half…In 05-07 he had a .831 pre-break OPS and a .733 post-break OPS. Last year he dropped from .291/.344/.504 first half to .255/.303/.425.

So ceteris paribus…that means buyer beware, right?

By I ♥ Barry

July 15, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this

Barry Bonds = future hall of fame. He deserves it.

By SaltyDawg

July 15, 2008 8:26 PM | Link to this

Gotta love the New Yawkers booing half of the players announced. If they only wanted to see the Yankees play, why go to the ASG in the first place? Typical lack of class.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this

Hank, Willie and Cal got the loudest, longest ovations among non-Yankees. Anybody with a Yankees connection got just overwhelming applause.

By McFann :Ô:

July 15, 2008 8:30 PM | Link to this

Actually, McCann’s wearing 16. It’s wrong on roster.

OK, that makes sense. Thanks, Chief!

Think this might be the first time I’ve really been geeked up about an All-Star Game. I mean, I was into in 2006, but this is different…

By chuckw/deadjournalist

July 15, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this

I LOVE BASEBALL!

By mr baseball

July 15, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this

Some interesting pitching decisions tonight for the 2 managers. AL has only 2 rested starters (Lee & Halladay), and Saunders, not exactly a true All-Star pitcher, was skipped from his Sunday start. But when your No. 4 closer is Joe Nathan, you may not need many starters.

Sheets, Zambrano & Haren are nicely lined up for the NL, but Hurdle only has 2 elite closers for the 8th & 9th. Neither Wilson nor Marmol should be on the roster.

If the game is close late, NL is in deep trouble besides the AL’s huge advantage in the bullpen. NL outfield in the late innings will likely be Ludwick, McLouth & Hart. Bet that scares the crap out of Rivera, Papelbon, Rodriguez & Nathan.

Where’s Carlos Lee? Where’s Beltran? Burrell? No room on the roster. There is room for Christian Guzman, who will enjoy his seat on the bench for 9 innings.

If the game is going to count, the best players should be in the game, not the favorites of Red Sox fans, Yankees fans & our friends in Japan. F’dome has absolutely no business being in the starting lineup & Ichiro is having his worst season in the majors. But we gotta have those Japanese dollars rolling in, so Carlos Lee gets to sit at home while a clearly inferior player takes his spot on the field.

Best case scenario for the NL. A lead in the 9th inning with the tying run on base & Jason Varitek at the plate with his All-Star worthy .218 batting average. Unfortunately for us NL fans, Billy Wagner will probably do what he does best and blow the game, giving the AL home field in the Series for the 44th consecutive year.

Over/under on game time: 3 hours, 33 minutes with a post-midnight finish.

By Steve C.

July 15, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this

Sheryl Freakin Crow!!!!!!!!!!

That is just weak, and a weak performance to boot. Man, everything was so perfect until that…

By Braveheart

July 15, 2008 8:37 PM | Link to this

Where the hell is the Voice of God tonight? Enough of this Joe Buck crap. Gimme some Bob Sheppard.

By SaltyDawg

July 15, 2008 8:38 PM | Link to this

What is the dumbest thing you have done today?

I just bet on the NL to win!

By Doc Holliday

July 15, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this

How sweet this is going to be……..great NL team…….

I predict big win for the NL in a big way…….

I wish for it to…………but I think theyll win it easily.

Shame braves wont be able to benefit from the outcome of the game.

By Mark

July 15, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this

DOB,

2 observations…what the hell was Willie Mays problem? He looked like he wanted to kill someone and he wouldn’t even look at Josh Hamilton, much less shake his hand…secondly, Wade Boggs wearing a Yankees hat? Ouch, sorry Boston!!!Ouch. Good luck Chipper and Brian, and go N.L.

By Saltywoody

July 15, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this

It’s too bad the Sox aren’t interested in Tex for Youk, though it doesn’t surprise me.

Frankly, I’m inclined to agree with DOB. Youkilis would be exactly what the Braves need right now. A shot in the arm. He’s probably on-par or just short of Tex defensively, could spell Chip at 3rd if need be, can play corner outfield spots (left field anyone?), is cheap, hits for both power and average.

But, above all? He’s gritty. He’s got the fire and the serious, intimidating demeanor that very few on the team have.

Actually, I think maybe that’s my problem with Tex. And maybe I’m reading him wrong. But he’s just too content to go up there, take what he can get, and go home. You don’t see him calling out other guys or being the vocal leader that the Braves need to complement Chipper.

If I’m the Braves, I might even throw someone else into the deal to get Youk. I’d rather have him for the next three or four years at a reasonable salary, than Tex for a few more months and a couple draft picks.

Plus, Youkilis’ goatee immediately lessens the relative ugliness of Chipper’s chin pubes. That’s gotta count for something.

By Dr. Feelgood

July 15, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this

Dave, I guess it’s moments like these that make the 162-plus grind worth it.

By MurphyRules

July 15, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

if you didnt like that intro, you dont like baseball

DOB, any idea about where johnny bench was?

By SaltyDawg

July 15, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

In honor of the ASG in NYC tonight, check out…

http://sun.menloschool.org/~sportman/ethnic/individual/rocker/index.html

…for some classic, choice words from none other than John Rocker.

By jodagr

July 15, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

DOB

What did you think of Rob Manfred? Every time I’ve heard him speak he comes off as incredibly pompous and arrogant.

By sixfourthree

July 15, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this

Comments about the allstar game—-Sheryl Crow was indeed weak…Did anyone notice that Willie Mays looked ticked off to be there; he completely blew off Josh Hamilton. Wow, how Steinbrenner has aged—he’s really going down hill quickly. But, I guess, he’s probably 85 or 86. Excited about the game—-here’s hoping Chipper and McCann put up big nights.

By ncscoots

July 15, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this

ernesto, SDawg, I don’t think you guys have been pricing suits OR ballplayers lately, LOL. Too many of the guys getting eight figures are barely above scrubby, let alone being impact players.

Lew, missing the cover was just an omission of photography, I’m guessing, hardly an indication of the quality of the goods. But I will admit this: on me, Giorgio looks DAMN good, but, even so, I don’t always get the girl! :-)

Win some, lose some, but you got to be able to at least get in the game, bubba, LOL.

By Steve from OH

July 15, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this

Didn’t see Sandy Koufax either…

By LD

July 15, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this

Dave,

Can’t believe the total lack of press coverage locally and nationally regarding Mac! He’s arguably the best all around catcher in the game, but it is as if he doesn’t exist! All the local coverage is geared to Chipper and national coverage(somewhat understandable) too. I think the Braves PR machine should promote him more. He’s first class, humble and deserving. Heck, Frenchy gets more coverage but doesn’t even come close from an offensive production standpoint! Very frustrating….

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this

Jodagr, in the small, informal setting we were in — literally seven guys pulling up chairs into a circle — he came across in a different way than you might perceive from TV. Much as Fehr did.

Sharp individuals, no question about that….

Murphy, not sure where Bench was, now that you mention it. But there were several not here. Just off top of my head, Tom Seaver and Sandy Koufax weren’t out there.

By NY Inc.

July 15, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this

This years allstar game is at Yankee Stadium….Next year CITIFIELD. LETS GO METS!!!

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

Nor was Stan Musial.

By Ryan Seacrest

July 15, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

Your correct about Sheryl. Fox should have had a shameless American Idol plug.

By LD459

July 15, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this

My God! Other than the obvious(Chicago fans stuffing the ballot box!), how did this Soto guy ever become the starting catcher for the NL over McCann!?

By SaltyDawg

July 15, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

Go Chip! Way to represent.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

Hoss steps up there with that big .376 on the board and lines the first pitch up the middle for a single.

He’s pretty good.

By chuckw/deadjournalist

July 15, 2008 9:05 PM | Link to this

Chipper, being Chipper

By Doc Holliday

July 15, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this

WOW…………….chipper goes over 2B with a single………..

Robochipper.

By McFann :Ô:

July 15, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this

CHIPPEEEEEEEEERRRRRR!!!

LET’S GO NATIONAL LEAGUE!!!

LD—

Yeah, the are lacking in that department.

By I ♥ Barry

July 15, 2008 9:09 PM | Link to this

Barry would’ve hit a homer off that chump if he were playing.

By Doc Holliday

July 15, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

Mark

I agree……..Boggs is a dirty rat……..his playing time in boston was double that his time in NY.

Carter and Winfield both had 2 hats on…….. He just didnt have the balls.

By bravos2249

July 15, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this

LOL who else had a feeling Chipper would get a hit?

And would be the only one too do far…FEELS LIKE A BRAVES GAME!

By LD459

July 15, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this

Other HOF’s missing this evening: Nolan Ryan, Warren Spahn……

By Doc Holliday

July 15, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this

DAP

I got confused with Adrian Beltre…….Im talking about Bradley, that why I asked that question.

By LD459

July 15, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

That’s now 2 non All Star like throws down to 2nd by Soto!

By LD459

July 15, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

That’s now 2 non All Star like throws down to 2nd by Soto!

By LD459

July 15, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this

That’s now 2 non All Star like throws down to 2nd by Soto!

By bravos2249

July 15, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this

Well it’s going to be fun hearing Cubs fans talk about how Soto is a better defensive catcher than Mac now….:)

By Braveheart

July 15, 2008 9:19 PM | Link to this

I didn’t see Lou Gehrig out there either. What’s up with that?

By LD459

July 15, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this

That’s now 2 non All Star like throws down to 2nd by Soto!

By Doc Holliday

July 15, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this

LOL who else had a feeling Chipper would get a hit?

And would be the only one too do far…FEELS LIKE A BRAVES GAME!

That was a good one.

By Bravesfaninmetsland

July 15, 2008 9:21 PM | Link to this

I have seen a couple games at Yankee Stadium. Perhaps sadly though my biggest memory was shaking hands with Bono when I had floor seats for the Zoo TV tour. They did put on a hell of a show even singing New York New York in the acustic set.

By bravos2249

July 15, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this

DOB

EXACTLY HOW MANY PITCHERS DOES THE NL HAVE?

Webb said he threw too many pitches and can’t go…don’t know if he changed his mind and NOW I just read that Lincecum has the Flu.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this

Bud is LOVING LIFE right now, flanked by Sarah Jessica Parker and Sheryl Crow for an on-field presentation about a cancer-fight thing that MLB is sponsoring.

By Braveheart

July 15, 2008 9:23 PM | Link to this

Boggs is a dirty rat……..his playing time in boston was double that his time in NY.

Margo

By Mark

July 15, 2008 9:24 PM | Link to this

bravos2249lol I totally agree just like a Braves games1-7 hitters muddle through with three strikeouts…and of course in the middle of that crap Chipper slams a line drive up the middle.

By Packer '63

July 15, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this

Mr. O’Brien, In answer to your question—-In June 1960 I saw a double-header at Yankee Stadium between the the Yanks and White Sox. I was a fifteen year old and had ridden the Silver Service train from Jesup to New York with my grandmother, a widow, and her old maid sister, my great aunt. Their brother-in-law was an insurance muckety-muck in New York. We sat with him in box seats just behind the White Sox dug-out. Mighty fine. Ralph Terry started one game for the Yanks and Bob Turley the other. Ryne Duren relieved a some time during the afternoon. He had quite a heater. Three impressions popped into my head as I reflected: Roger Maris had an unbelievably compact swing which he demonstrated on a fast ball which he deposited in the right field stands; Elston Howard appeared to be a head taller than most of the White Sox hitters; Luis Aparicio and Nellie Fox looked like little leaguers out there, but they could play. The teams split 2-1 victories that afternoon.

By Tomas

July 15, 2008 9:35 PM | Link to this

DOB, who do you think the Braves would sign if they were unable to sign, or trade Tex. Manny Ramirez, Vlady, Bradley, Bobby Abreu, Troy Glaus(to play first), or Jason Giambi?

By the way nice hit by chipper, maybe he could come with runners in his next at bat and prove to everybody that he is the best hitter of the national league.

By Mark

July 15, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this

I was really excited about this game…but, outside of Chipper’s rip…ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

By Tomas

July 15, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this

or Adam Dunn.

By Steve C.

July 15, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this

Pujols was safe…he was robbed. And then to add to the hilarity, McCarver compares Ichiro to Clemente?!?!? That guy is retarded

By Greg

July 15, 2008 9:45 PM | Link to this

DOB:

Any insight into why Willie Mays looked so angry?

By McFann :Ô:

July 15, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this

LD He’s first class, humble and deserving.

Oh yeah! But I think the humbleness is what’s keeping him from being all over the place. Lovin’ it…

Who is this Soto guy, and why is he starting?

8 )

By bravos2249

July 15, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this

not to answer for DOB but if the Braves couldn’t sign Tex how could they sign another Boras client in Manny?

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this

Hey, I guess Matt Holliday can hit a little bit outside Coors, too.

By Willie Mays

July 15, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this

Any insight into why Willie Mays looked so angry?

They didn’t say hey. When you talk to Willie, you say hey. If you don’t say hey, Willie get angry.

By cls1973

July 15, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this

Any insight into why Willie Mays looked so angry?

I will say this, there is no former player I respect more than Willie Mays, based on his on-field accomplishments. But a lot of people I know who have met him personally have been terribly disappointed that he’s not as gracious as some former greats are.

By Franklin Tower

July 15, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this

THE ALL STAR GAME!

I’m snore-struck.

By McFann :Ô:

July 15, 2008 10:04 PM | Link to this

Russell Martin is in…

By The Goche

July 15, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this

How crappy is sending McCann 3rd string…

It’s obvious he’s got who he thinks should be starting in there, (taking out only the Cubs homer picks, and especially leaving possibly the most deserving infield ever in tact), so why is Martin (who I do think is awesome) out there instead of Mac…

Mac is clearly having the best season of any catcher in baseball…

By Cooper

July 15, 2008 10:08 PM | Link to this

Matt Holliday can hit. :)

So keep Tex

Trade for Holliday

Hope the rookies SPs don’t implode.

Don’t give up and fight til the end.

By BostonBravesGirl

July 15, 2008 10:09 PM | Link to this

The Braves do so NOT want Manny Ramirez. He’s finally paying attention this year because his contract is up at the end of this year and suddenly, here in Boston, he’s all smiles and chit-chat with the local reporters, trying to buff up his image. And bravos2249 is right, he’s a Boras client and will not be cheap (and he’s not so young anymore either).

Sure he can hit but he’s so high-maintenance (smackdown with the 64-year-old traveling secretary, talking on his mobile behind the scoreboard during a game, anyone?) and would not fit into a Cox clubhouse. He’s perfect for a DH spot in the AL, but please, please, NOT in Atlanta.

By Tomas

July 15, 2008 10:11 PM | Link to this

Matt Holliday is just a great hitter. I mean he won the batting title last year, and had 36 hr, with 137 RBI. I don’t understand why they didn’t give him the mvp, he was a big reason of the late rockies surge to get them to the playoff and the world series. Jimmy Rollins had a great season and all but Matt Holliday deserved it.

By bravos2249

July 15, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this

Is Soto and KF were going to be replaced so soon why were they batting 8th and 9th…Mac will probably be lucky to have an ab unless he ph for another spot then comes in.

By Dizzy Dean

July 15, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this

Well PeeWee, time for a Falstaff.

By A-ville Ranger

July 15, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this

George Brett is right at the top of my list of hitters I’ve enjoyed watching.The guy laid back like a cobra and his swing had beautiful timing.

Then there’s off field George,has the guy ever uttered an articulate sentence ? His pre-game speech to the AL squad was typical Brett.He was doing fine explaining how they’d lost 12 of 13 or whatever then he ruined it by saying it meant nothing,completely worthless.

I’d rather he just hold up cards explaining the next best of George Brett at bat we’re about to watch…now that would be articulate.

By Random

July 15, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this

Doc Holliday: “Sheets would be the best sign, … . And he would make our rotation virtually the best in baseball … , that is by far the best top to bottom and very low injury risk rotation.”

Huh?!?

2005/2006/2007 — Sheets’ Games Started and Innings Pitched for each of those years were 22/156.2, 17/106.0 & 24/141.1. (He did post 34 GS and 215+ IP each of the three previous years.)

I thought it was the received wisdom around here that Sheets was just plain injury-plagued. Did you not get that memo?

8-)

By McFann :Ô:

July 15, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this

Goche—

By far the best season of any catcher. McCann should not be 3rd string (maybe that HBP influenced Hurdle the wrong way).

Though, while we the fanns are screaming for 3BMac to be put in, he’s just having the time of his life to be there.

(But I bet he’s dying to play!)

By Tomas

July 15, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this

Look for those of you talking trash about Manny that he is finally paying attention this year. Look at his stat the past 4 years: 2004, 308 43 130, 2005, 292 45 144, 2006, 321 35 102, 2007, 296 20 88, and 2008 293 18 60. That is a model of consistency, and the braves are lacking of consistant hitter to join Chipper. He is the same age as chipper and has average around 145 games this last few years, and he will not make more money than Tex, I can assure you that, not because his numbers are declining, but because he would be 37 years old next year and Tex will be 29.

By JJMB

July 15, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this

Buck Belue said you were surly. John Kincade said you need a “Pamprin endorsement.” What in the heck happened on the radio DOB? Sorry I missed it. I do enjoy how you handle that petulant pipsqueak Kincade.

By Jimminy Crickit

July 15, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this

Sorry to change the subject, but does anyone know when Mike Hampton’s gargantuan contract expires?

By cabravesfan

July 15, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this

suddenly Mac’s defense doesn’t look so bad…

By cls1973

July 15, 2008 10:35 PM | Link to this

Sorry to change the subject, but does anyone know when Mike Hampton’s gargantuan contract expires?

After this season, I’m fairly certain.

By A-ville Ranger

July 15, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Holliday got a hit tonight but DOB has pointed out how stark the difference has been in his stats at Coors and away.

By keylargo

July 15, 2008 10:39 PM | Link to this

JC

Hampton has a $20M option with a $6M buyout for 2009.

Relax though, the always thinking JS had the forethought to have Colorado pay the buyout.

By Random

July 15, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this

The Goche: “How crappy is sending McCann 3rd string…”

Respectfully disagree — in any sequence of three (eg, paragraphs in an essay, children — the middle kid’s always screwed up, etc), the crappiest element is usually placed second, with second best leading off and the best saved for last.

To be the third of three catchers means finishing the game, and baseball has no time clock.

What if Mccann comes in in the seventh, and we go to extra innings?

My interpretation is that McCann was being honored by being reserved for the latter innings.

By BostonBravesGirl

July 15, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this

Hey Tomas, you didn’t read my post, or you just missed my point. I said Manny’s numbers were good, but he’s a disruptive presence in the clubhouse because he’s not a team player, and he’s not young enough or good enough defensively to warrant paying the numbers Boras is sure to demand for him.

My favorite ‘Manny-being-Manny’ routine was a couple of years ago when he was whining about wanting to leave Boston and go play for the Yankees. The Sox put him on waivers and guess what? Not a team in the land wanted him, including the Yanks. I like his bat, but there are other younger, hungrier and cheaper bats out there.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this

JJMB, I was a bit salty. I had forgotten today was the day we do that, and they called while I was in the crowded clubhouse waiting for McCann and Chipper to come out, as my deadline approached and I hadn’t written a word of my McCann story.

Anyway, I only snapped at Kincade when he said something about how I was probably going to write some midseason stories and look-ahead stuff before Friday’s game, and I said, ‘No, I’m gonna have a day off.”

By keylargo

July 15, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this

I really appreciate an entertainer that sings God Bless America or the Star Spangled Banner like they were written and meant to be sung instead of trying to invent some idiotic version.

By Mike

July 15, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this

What is the song FOX played during the introduction of the Hallof Famers and players? I have heard it before and not remembering is killing me.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this

A-Ville Ranger: George Brett OWNED Kansas City when I was in high school and college out there. The man was a god there.

He ended up marrying a KU sorority girl who was in school at the same time as me.

By Clint Hurdle

July 15, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this

Glad Hurdle used Martin to catch. After all, he’s so much better at throwing to second than McCann. (eyeroll)

Hurdle is one lucky guy. He runs Harren out there 2 innings in a row when Harren didn’t seem to have his best stuff. He has a bullpen full of closers in a game that,like it or not, the outcome means a big deal in the postseason. Had Harren been lit up that second inning, there would have rightly been some second guessing.

By DHD

July 15, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this

I attended the first game of the 1977 World Series at Yankee Stadium. It was the series that Reggie hit the 3 HRs in one game, but I saw the Yankees win in 10 innings. It was the first time i had ever been north and what got me was how the little kids were cussing out everybody. It’s my only experience at Yankee Stadium.

Braves….We need to build on this young pitching. I know we have Huddy for a little longer, but I bet we could get a bunch for him too. Let’s trade Tex and Huddy for some young studs. Sign Furcal in the off season, put Chipper at first and Escobar at third. Get help in the outfield.

By Doc Holliday

July 15, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this

Random

Ill bet that Sheets will pitch more innings this year than smoltz, glavine, hampton and james combined.

Thats what Im talking about pal.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this

Oh, my. Extra innings?

Hey, now it’s for real, right? Or whatever they say.

J.D. Freakin’ Drew is having a helluva season, now this, forcing Yankee Stadium fans to wonder whether they should cheer or not (some did, but not too many).

By McFann :Ô:

July 15, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this

Random—

I like that. (But, hey, I’m a middle child…; >)

DOB—

McCann story??? Can’t wait!!

By Jake

July 15, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this

Wow, i’m still laughing at myself to how that is a homer, and I think Josh Hamilton might be laughing at that wallscraper too.

By Doc Holliday

July 15, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this

Sheets 123 IP

Smoltz + Hampton + Glavine + James = 110 IP

I know he has been injured in the past……..but he was leading the Brewers in GS and IP before Sabathia got there.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 11:04 PM | Link to this

DOB, who do you think the Braves would sign if they were unable to sign, or trade Tex. Manny Ramirez, Vlady, Bradley, Bobby Abreu, Troy Glaus(to play first), or Jason Giambi?Tomas

I’m gonna go with “none of the above.”

By the way, J.D. Drew just became 15th player to homer in his first All-Star at-bat, first since … you guessed it, David Wright (in 2006).

By the way, Brasky (D. Wright) was quite good tonight when I asked him about McCann. Very accomodating.

Wright is coming up to pinch-hit right now, by the way.

Insert David Wright for Bill Brasky in this

By McFann :Ô:

July 15, 2008 11:06 PM | Link to this

Oh, but obviously I don’t like the idear of extra innings…

GO NL!! Put McCann in NOW!

By Tommy Lasorda

July 15, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this

I’m glad we are back out in front. I am hoping we won’t have to use our secret weapon, Andruw Jones to win this thing late. He needs the rest. Did you see him in the Home Run Derby? He was smoking. He’s a pull hitter you know.

By SandyB

July 15, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this

watching this all-star game is tough….You start cheering for Wright to get out, then suddenly you recall he is on your team… :-(

By chrisklob

July 15, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this

Hey DOB, so now that David Wright has entered the game, I guess it’s safe to assume that he’ll be awarded the MVP trophy, regardless of the outcome.

After all, didn’t they already have his name engraved on the trophy before the game?

By bravos2249

July 15, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this

Okay Is Mac HURT or somethin..cause I don’t get this?

By Doc Holliday

July 15, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this

Random

VERY LOW injury risk rotation is not the same as INJRUY FREE rotation….got it? or do I have to spend more time for you to get the point??????

By Tommy Lasorda

July 15, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this

One thing you have to admit. That Brian McCann can throw with the big boys.

By JJMB

July 15, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this

Give ‘em hèll, Dave.

By Clint Hurdle

July 15, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this

Maybe Hurdle subscribes to the Bobby Cox school of managing. If so, no Brian McCann tonight. He doesn’t want to be out of catchers if Martin is injured.

But hey, this time is counts! Or at least that’s what I’ve been hearing the last couple of years.

Hey here’s Billy Wagner! Seems like I remember him giving up the winning home run to the AL last year!

By woogidy

July 15, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this

Crazy Stats Katz, I thank you. Keylargo, What he said. If Andruw got 18 mil a season, I promise Tex will get 23 per.

By brent a.

July 15, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this

bravos2249

Where are we missing each other?

Last season, A-Rod was still playing on the contract he signed with the Rangers in 2000 (began playing on in 2001). He made $27 million last year.

You do understand that, don’t you? Because if you do, then I have no idea why you are “ahhemm”ing me.

alex rodriguez made $27 million in 2007, then opted out of his contract

He is also making $27 million this year, in the first year of his new contract with the Yankees.

The whole purpose of my initial post was to point out how much A-rod got paid when he signed his Texas contract after the 2000 season and how that would relate to today’s dollars. That’s it.

Where is the confusion?

I sure don’t see it.

If you want to talk about A-Rod’s current deal, fine, talk about it. But why “ahhemm” me?

Nothing in my post ran counter to any additional information that you provided.

It makes no sense.

By Bama

July 15, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this

Whats up! Wheres McC?

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this

Damn, just when you think the NL is ready to snap the streak (which I predicted they would during the first month of the season), the AL comes roaring back….

RRR, you actually saw The Clash open for The Who at Shea? That’s incredible. Love the footage of the Clash playing that show. Two of my favorite all-time bands….

By Clint Hurdle

July 15, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this

Billy Gagner does it again!!!!!

By McFann :Ô:

July 15, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this

So……Why on earth would you put in Billy Wagner and not McCann??

This is getting annoying…

By SandyB

July 15, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this

I bet BMac wouldn’t have let Sizemore go in uncontested.

Linescore for both teams: 3 8 1 pretty evenly matched for a change

By Doc Holliday

July 15, 2008 11:25 PM | Link to this

Freakin wagner…………..what a closer…………

Didnt he gave up the winning or tying run last year or something like that?????

Please dont bring him ever again to the ASG!!!!!!!

Bases empty and none out and he just couldnt finish the job.

I suppose rockies manager knew something like that could happen with him and just wanted him to get one out……….but he is so good he couldnt……….

BTW………….Wright strikes out in the game also……….poor muts……….

0-1 with a k and an ERA of 27.00 for their reliever…….

By woogidy

July 15, 2008 11:26 PM | Link to this

Maybe McCann will come in and pinch run. Maybe?

By Marc

July 15, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this

DOB,

Isn’t it a bit sad that the best catcher in the NL hasn’t even seen a minute of playing time yet?

Oh, the red-headed stepchild treatment Braves players of any ilk get.

By Clint Hurdle

July 15, 2008 11:28 PM | Link to this

So Hurdle manages to get all the Cubs in. He makes sure he gets Wright and Gagner in the game so all the New York fans will get to see all their boys! Only problem is the Giants closer was dealing! But hey! The NY fans want to see Gagner! So the Yanks fans are happy they saw Gagner. He has a habit of giving life to the AL team.

By McFann :Ô:

July 15, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this

Loved the article, Chief! Thanks!

By kris

July 15, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this

Anybody else tired of the american league beating the national league? I’m sick of it and looks like it will happen again-unreal

By raindawg722

July 15, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this

Good mid-summer classic so far. Hopefully the National League will pull it out. We’re overdue.

This is off-topic, but I was wondering if anyone else had noticed the exploits of one Richard Sullivan, the lefty out of the Savannah College of Art and Design that the Braves drafted in the 11th round. I don’t want to get too excited about a college pitcher dominating a bunch of 18 year olds, but in the first 24 innings of his professional career between Danville and Rome he’s struck out 27 and issued no walks. The Ks are nice, but control is usually one of the last things that a young pitcher figures out so that start is pretty encouraging for Mr. Sullivan. I wonder what the record is for most innings without issuing a walk to start a professional career. Anyone from Elias on this blog tonight?

By SaltyDawg

July 15, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this

keylargo

*Hampton has a $20M option with a $6M buyout for 2009.

Relax though, the always thinking JS had the forethought to have Colorado pay the buyout.*

Are you implying that the Braves won’t pick up Hampton’s option? I don’t see why they wouldn’t. He has always been pretty reliable. At a cool $20 mil I would say he is a bargain.

By The Goche

July 15, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this

ugh…

it’s so dumb that this game matters at all, just let it be fun!

By keylargo

July 15, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this

wogidy I have no idea about the accuracy of those stats Krazy Stats came up with. All I know is that the option year is sort of a compromise outside of the contract that is agreed upon as a fair for both sides number. Those numbers for all star caliber players were 16,15 and 13 million for 2010, 2011, 2011. I just asked you how do you think non all star Tex deserves $23M for 09,10,11? I’m still waiting to hear from you.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 11:32 PM | Link to this

DOB - I’m sure Bud Selig will get asked about the policy on the significance of the All-Star Game and WS home-field advantage and possibly changing it…I’ll look forward to reading about what he says about that oneDaybed

Just saw this. Sorry to take so long to reply.

Yes, a few members asked Bud about the ASG deciding home-field advantage for World Series and if they’ll consider ending that much-maligned policy.

Sore subject with him.

He replied, “I’m always mystified by this. Look, what has it done? It’s restored the intensity to the [All-Star Game].”

When asked about letting the best record decide home field instead of the ASG, he said doing it that way “doesn’t work” because of the 5,000 to 8,000 hotel rooms that are required on short notice by a World Series city.

He said he’s had a lot of players and managers tell him they like it the way it is now (personally, I’ve not heard any tell me that, just for the record).

He said there’s not another good solution because “anybody who thinks you can plan a World Series in 48 hours just doesn’t understand.”

Oh, but you can’t get one past the BBWAA assemblage that easily.

Someone then asked Selig, why not let best interleague record decide which league gets home-field advantage?

“That’s not very exciting,” he said. “This is more dramatic. This at least helps our broadcast partners, and it’s more dramatic.”

Ah, yes. The broadcast partners.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 11:34 PM | Link to this

This whole place is chanting “Ma-ri-a-no, Ma-ri-a-no….”

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this

I attended the first game of the 1977 World Series at Yankee Stadium…. It was the first time i had ever been north and what got me was how the little kids were cussing out everybody. It’s my only experience at Yankee Stadium.DHD

I know what you mean. Today getting off the elevator, a little kid about 10 years old told me to go f* myself for no reason at all.

(OK, that didn’t happen. I just liked your anecdote and thought I’d add a totally fabricated one.)

By Chop Chop

July 15, 2008 11:37 PM | Link to this

Quit your whining, Marc.

At least McCann didn’t somehow get screwed out of being named to the team. Clint Hurdle’s going to end up saving McCann for extra innings. Probably not a bad idea in a game like this.

You know, unless the game is over by the time this is posted.

By Yep

July 15, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this

I was sick of the AL beating the NL until Hurdle brought Wagner in simply for the sake of bringing Wagner in. C’mon guys decide if this is a game that means something or is it a PR event? Why else would Wright pinch hit. (he wasn’t even named to the original team) and Wagner come in with two outs in the eighth if not for the New York PR event aspect?

I swear, now I really don’t even care if the AL wins it. With player usage like Hurdle displayed tonight is worth a loss. Hope the AL end it in the bottom of the ninth.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 11:41 PM | Link to this

Ryan Dempster is 10-1 with a 2.81 ERA in 12 home starts, and 0-3 with a 4.03 ERA in eight road starts.

Is that wild, or what? All-Star without a road win.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this

McCann spotted … on the top step, high-fiving Dempster as he came off the field after that inning.

By keylargo

July 15, 2008 11:45 PM | Link to this

SaltyDawg

You know I should have thought of that. We have all that money from Glavine, Smotlz, Kotsay, etc. that we will not be needing. The blog is ready to give Tex $50M a year so $20M for Hampton seems about right!

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 11:45 PM | Link to this

Just remember: This time it counts. (Unless we have to play 17 or so innings and run out of players, in which case the coin flip will count)

By Phi

July 15, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this

All I have to say is that I better see McCann hit, take the field or something in extras. This is CRAZY!

By DesIBrave

July 15, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this

I miss Bobby Cox, Blown Boyer, Manny Acostus combo in this all star game for NL

By brent a.

July 15, 2008 11:47 PM | Link to this

Y’know, I’m okay with this game deciding home field in the world series. To me, that’s about as valid as rotating it every year the way they used.

But, the first year of the “this one counts”, I’ll never forget Wagner (and who else, Gagne?) giving up homes at US Cellular to blow a win for the NL, while Smoltz was sitting and watching.

That was actually one of the last times that Home field might’ve really mattered for the Braves, I hated seeing those chumps blow it, when Smoltz, arguably, could’ve gone 2.

but, that just showed that “it didn’t really count”. And to add insult to injury, after the game, if I’m not mistaken, Wagner referred to the game as being “an exhibition”, and shrugged off giving up the later homer.

Rafael Furcal made the last out in that one.

By Doc Holliday

July 15, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this

I cant believe Martin is on deck……………WTH.

By kris

July 15, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this

I thought McCaan would surely pinch hit there for Martin. wtf?????

By SandyB

July 15, 2008 11:52 PM | Link to this

obviously the top step is as close as they are going to let BMac get…..

By TomL

July 15, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this

Do you think McCann’s bruises have prevented him from being used so far? Or do they just want to save a catcher in case.

By It's Because

July 15, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this

Hurdle plays the Dodgers 18 times a year. He doesn’t want to give Martin any added incentive (not getting in the game) to wear the Rockies out when they play each other. So he puts the 3rd best catcher he has on his roster in the game and continues to sit arguably the best catcher he has on the roster.

By Snydes

July 15, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this

Seriously….where is Mac? And honestly DOB, can’t you give us any better insight than saying the crowd is chanting “Mariano, Mariano”?? How about what is going on with McCann? What is the feeling about why he hasn’t been used?

By McFann :Ô:

July 15, 2008 11:55 PM | Link to this

I need to turn this thing, off, Clint. I wanted to say something when you put McCann in, but uh…

By Doc Holliday

July 15, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this

Cant we get a pitcher like Rivera???

Hope there are not anymore muts on the bench……… that would be lethal.

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this

McCann is going behind the plate … to warm up pitcher Aaron Cook until Martin gets out there.

Gave Martin an enthusiastic go-get-‘em pat on the butt as he left the field. Team guy, Mac.

By Mark T.

July 15, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this

I have a question that may make sense or not. If some bloggers have said we can look to make a serious run in 2010 or 2011, why can’t we re-sign Tex and put Heyward and Freeman at different positions? Have Freeman play 3rd, since is a RH throwing lefty and have Heyward play RF, if Frenchy would consider moving to LF, just like Chipper did for Vinny Castilla or LF if he doesnt want to move. I’d like to see 3 strong armed OF’s out there. An outfield with Schafer, Frenchy and Heyward could be pretty good. Just a thought

By Mark T.

July 15, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this

I have a question that may make sense or not. If some bloggers have said we can look to make a serious run in 2010 or 2011, why can’t we re-sign Tex and put Heyward and Freeman at different positions? Have Freeman play 3rd, since is a RH throwing lefty and have Heyward play RF, if Frenchy would consider moving to LF, just like Chipper did for Vinny Castilla or LF if he doesnt want to move. I’d like to see 3 strong armed OF’s out there. An outfield with Schafer, Frenchy and Heyward could be pretty darn good. Just a thought

By brent a.

July 15, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this

where is man of teal now?

By Uggla Ugly

July 15, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this

Uggla is determined to be the goat of this game.

By TURTSNAP

July 15, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this

One wishes Uggla would look as uggla against us during the year as he has in this game!

By David O'Brien

July 15, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this

UGGLA, indeed. Wow, what a disaster of an inning for Hack.

By kris

July 15, 2008 11:59 PM | Link to this

Ugglia living up to his name-unreal but I feel for the guy-there’s always next year

By brent a.

July 16, 2008 12:00 AM | Link to this

nice timing, Ken Rosenthal

By Doc Holliday

July 16, 2008 12:01 AM | Link to this

WOW………didnt know KJ was elected to the ASG………oh wait…….that was Uggla

By Bama

July 16, 2008 12:01 AM | Link to this

Oh He!!—They choked just like another team I know.

By The Goche

July 16, 2008 12:01 AM | Link to this

McCann has the 12th best SLG % in the majors, 41 points better then the next best catcher.

He has 18 HRs, 12.5% more than the next best catcher.

He is 14th in the majors in OPS, the next best catcher is 30th.

Just some things I’ve noticed…they apparently have little to do with any events occuring tonight.

By Clint Hurdle threw the game

July 16, 2008 12:02 AM | Link to this

It’s 12:00 at night. Do you know where Brian McCann is?

By keylargo

July 16, 2008 12:02 AM | Link to this

Did anyone see BMac taking BP? I’m thinking his wrist/forearm must be hurt worse than we realize. He was really smacked and he’s certainly no whiner.

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 12:03 AM | Link to this

On top of everything else, Uggla takes his time fielding and throwing home, eliminating any chance at all of the double play.

By TURTSNAP

July 16, 2008 12:05 AM | Link to this

Great play by Tejada, and great job by Cook!

By DAP

July 16, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this

what an amazing top of the tenth by the national league. uggla tries to give it away, and cook hunkers down and gets three ground balls. that was great.

By Greg O.

July 16, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this

Somehow I could hear Bob Uecker, Major League 2 style, announcing this inning with regards to Uggla, especially after Ohman’s “porn hack” comment.

“So credit Uggla with an RBI, and enter that inning into the running for the Trojan-enz Boner of Week Award.”

By woogidy

July 16, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this

Did Frenchy just hit 3 times in a row for the AL?

By Kentavo

July 16, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this

I think Clint Hurdle has Bobby Cox’s instructional video: “How to Lose a 1-run Game.”

Notice how Francona has lined up his relief pitchers who are used to late innings while the ol’ Rocks manager has done a Bobby Cox mish-mash handling of the pitching staff and there’s starters trying to close out the game.

Meanwhile, NL is trying to get hits off the A.L.’s three best closers.

Go figure.

By kris

July 16, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this

wow great play to end the inning and great job by Cook-we go on!

By Doc Holliday

July 16, 2008 12:07 AM | Link to this

Boy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tejada is the MVP of this game……….

Wow…………that guy is a monster……….he has done it all.

By McFann Ô

July 16, 2008 12:07 AM | Link to this

Maybe if I sign off, Hurdle will put Mac in.

“This one counts” + Clint Hurdle = The fun taken out of the game.

Night.

By Sinker

July 16, 2008 12:08 AM | Link to this

Two points. Cook showed what a sinker ball pitcher can do for you if he’s sinking.

Second point. A guy who I thought shouldn’t be on the roster for the NL will be the MVP if the NL wins it this inning.

Tejada. Two hits and a do or die play at short to keep the game going!

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this

Seriously….where is Mac? And honestly DOB, can’t you give us any better insight than saying the crowd is chanting “Mariano, Mariano”?? How about what is going on with McCann? What is the feeling about why he hasn’t been used?Snydes

Honestly, Snydes, no I can’t give you “insight” into why McCann hasn’t played when I’m sitting in a pressbox watching the All-Star Game. Not like we have PR guy to call down to the dugout to check for us, chief. I mean, seriously. Or rather, honestly.

McCann’s a little banged up, so perhaps Bobby and/or McCann told Hurdle that he wouldn’t mind being the last guy used, in case of emergency only. But I doubt it, since Mac played — and played well — in S. Diego.

There are always players who don’t get in the All-Star Game, and fans of that particular team who wonder why their guy got shafted. Happens. Other than that, don’t know what to tell you. Or should I call Mac on his cell during the game?

By Jake

July 16, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this

Alright!!!The A.L. just showed the world what the Braves have been doing the last two years. You can load the bases and not get one run.

By McFann Ô

July 16, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this

BTW—You’re right, Chief. Mac is such a team guy.

Night, again. :,|

By The Goche

July 16, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this

Mac also has 27 doubles, 3 more than the next best catcher, another 12.5%

He is tied for 10th in the ML in extra base hits…probably not important though.

By Bama

July 16, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this

McCann will hit and homer to win game. I Pray.

By Doc Holliday

July 16, 2008 12:12 AM | Link to this

2K´s for Wright………..

Cant they reinsert chipper?……….I just heard they can reinsert a catcher if an injury happens………….maybe they can ask wright to fake a cramp.

By Random

July 16, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this

McFann :Ô:: “I like that. (But, hey, I’m a middle child…; >)”

Sure you are. So far.

(Cue the bass theme from Jaws.)

;->

By Snydes

July 16, 2008 12:13 AM | Link to this

DOB Can you PLEASE give us any insight on McCann????? Did he know that his role would be as a cheerleader??

By The Goche

July 16, 2008 12:15 AM | Link to this

Gosh I hope this ties!

Joe Buck just mentioned the possibility of a Dance-off for home field advantage!

You gotta think Heap would make the lineup for that!

But really, anything that makes Selig look dumb is fun for me.

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 12:16 AM | Link to this

Keylargo, he homered and doubled in his two at-bats after getting hit in the wrist Sunday, and I asked him about the wrist after that game at S.D. He said it wasn’t anything, etc.

Now, might it have swollen up the next day? Possible. He didn’t say anything about it, though. And if an All-Star is hurt and not going to be available, they normally replace him at the last minute, even the day before the game.

We’ll check with him after it’s over.

By That Settles It

July 16, 2008 12:16 AM | Link to this

They just said a catcher could re-enter due to injury. So in effect, Hurdle used a roster replacement who wasn’t even named to the initial team (WRIGHT)to DH. So instead of McCann getting that DH spot after Pujois left the game, Wright got it.

Now since they are out of position players, McCann can only pinch hit for one player. That would be Wright, who just struck out for the second time. They will have to play another 2 or 3 innings after this inning just to give McCann a chance to hit for Wright. If… he even gets in the game then.

Screw ‘em. Hope the AL wins it this inning.

Oh yeah, screw Clint Hurdle too.

By Snydes

July 16, 2008 12:18 AM | Link to this

Thanks DOB for answering…and being smug. Since you have been there hanging with the elite, I thought maybe you had some insight as to why McCann isnt in the game. I though that was what a beat writer did…gave insight.

Or…just give us some lyrics to a lame song

By cabravesfan

July 16, 2008 12:20 AM | Link to this

excellent phantom tag by tejada…

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 12:21 AM | Link to this

Brandon Webb up in the ‘pen — nice weapon to have in the 11th or 12th inning, huh?

By The Goche

July 16, 2008 12:22 AM | Link to this

I would like to hear the DOB to Mac call on the cell phone in the dugout.

By rupert

July 16, 2008 12:22 AM | Link to this

could of sworn i saw frenchy bat for the al there with the bases loaded

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 12:24 AM | Link to this

UNN-believable. McLouth with a great play and Martin with a terrific catch and tag. Wow.

By kris

July 16, 2008 12:25 AM | Link to this

Hurdle wants to lose this game. cook is out of gas-is Bobby in the dugout?

By Doc Holliday

July 16, 2008 12:26 AM | Link to this

That little smurf in CF has a bazooka for an arm.

By keylargo

July 16, 2008 12:26 AM | Link to this

How bout that view of home from the “worm cam?”

By woogidy

July 16, 2008 12:26 AM | Link to this

I am loving every minute of this, reminiscent of Turner Field opening night, back and forth.

By FaninFaytown

July 16, 2008 12:26 AM | Link to this

Snydes you’re a moron

By DesiBrave

July 16, 2008 12:27 AM | Link to this

I know we all are desperate to see McCann in there but don’t you feel that Russel Martin in playing unbelievable defense behind the plate and deserves to stay in there….

By Youkilus

July 16, 2008 12:28 AM | Link to this

I don’t want Youkilus in Atlanta.

I just saw him in the dugout looking totally like a dimwitted chimpanzee making faces! Not clowning for the camera, just involuntarily contorting his face.

On the other hand…..maybe that’s what the Braves need.

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 12:28 AM | Link to this

Snide … er, Snydes, what beat writer wouldn’t enjoy trying to provide information for you? But I feel like a failure because I don’t know why McCann is not in the game. Sorry I’ve let you down.

By woogidy

July 16, 2008 12:28 AM | Link to this

You guys notice Chipper used his white glove that Bobby won’t let him use tonight? I think it looks pretty sweet.

By Chop Chop

July 16, 2008 12:30 AM | Link to this

Nice to see the umpiring is at an “All-Star level” tonight. Kinsler was safe…and Navarro was safe.

(They did just get the call right on a bang-bang play at first.)

If the NL doesn’t win this game tonight, it might be another eleven years before they get one.

By kris

July 16, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this

McCann bypassed again-unreal

By JimD

July 16, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this

Snydes maybe you should switch to decaf! DOB does a great job giving insight when the insight is given to him. He is a REPORTER. He REPORTS. He is not a gossip columnist who makes things up. Take a chill pill and watch the game.

By RC

July 16, 2008 12:33 AM | Link to this

Yep, there are always players that don’t get to play in the game….unless they play in the American League. That’s why Terry Francona has 2 rings and Hurdle has none…well, that and coaching the team with a higher payroll than the national government. Anyway, in my anger that Mac STILL isn’t in the game, I’m going to remember a little story from my trip to Denver this past winter….

If anyone has taken a tour of Coors Field lately, they will know that a LOT of trophy cases have been constructed to commemorate their amazing run into the postseason last year. This past winter my girlfriend and I were taking a tour of Coors and at one point the retiree tour guide points out a trophy case with pictures from the Phillies series, as well as a broom that’s in the case. The tour guide mentions that the broom is because they swept the Phillies in 3 games to which my girlfriend immediately replies “But didn’t the Rockies get swept by the Red Sox in the World Series?” Complete silence by the entire tour group….it was phenomonal.

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 12:34 AM | Link to this

OK, Soria is flat-out filthy. He made Uggla look foolish. Nasty stuff.

By Capt Caveman (the original Dawg)

July 16, 2008 12:34 AM | Link to this

Well that at bat was U-GG-LA-LY !!!

By kris

July 16, 2008 12:35 AM | Link to this

Uggla-man talk about laying an egg tonight

By Now Dammit!

July 16, 2008 12:37 AM | Link to this

If Wright comes up this inning (lefty reliever or not) and McCann doesn’t hit for him, then he’s either hurt or Hurdle just stomped McCann in the head with a Hobnail boot! Sorry Larry Munsen.

By Snydes

July 16, 2008 12:37 AM | Link to this

Thanks again DOB…insightful as always

By MurphyRules

July 16, 2008 12:38 AM | Link to this

Snydes = douche bag

Terrible umpiring tonight. This game should be over. Navarro was safe.

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 12:39 AM | Link to this

McCann’s leaning at the dugout railing, talking to Dempster and laughing. And for what it’s worth, there is no wrap or bandage of any kind on his wrist.

By keylargo

July 16, 2008 12:40 AM | Link to this

And I thought my days of feeling like a Zombie in the a.m. were over last week.

By The Goche

July 16, 2008 12:40 AM | Link to this

Brandon Webb up in the ‘pen — nice weapon to have in the 11th or 12th inning, huh?

I think we should trade Lillibridge and Gotay for Webb and make him our closer…

Problems solved:

CHAMPIONSHIP!

By kris

July 16, 2008 12:41 AM | Link to this

Cook ran out of gas last inning-unreal he is still in there. Hurdle is worse than bobby cox

By Mark

July 16, 2008 12:41 AM | Link to this

They already said that the only player that can be re-entered is an injury to the catcher…so no excuse for B-Mac not being in there

By Randy S

July 16, 2008 12:41 AM | Link to this

My solution if this goes much further, get Knucksie out there to pitch for both sides.

By DAP

July 16, 2008 12:41 AM | Link to this

chop chop i dont think so. navarro looked out. and kinsler was safe, but the ump blew the call on the would be pujols double earlier in the game, so it evens out.

By Greg O.

July 16, 2008 12:41 AM | Link to this

I immediately feel better about the Braves’ chronic inability to score runs with a man on third and less than two outs. It’s apparent that it’s an MLB-wide problem. If the all-stars can’t get it done, why am I worrying about Kelly Johnson?

By rupert

July 16, 2008 12:42 AM | Link to this

his name is DAN UGGLA!!

that’s what those damn marlin anouncers scream everytime he bats an eye lash down there, little different playing in this game than in front of a sollid 560 people in south florida huh dano?

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 12:42 AM | Link to this

Mr. Uggla would appear to have the yips at this stage. Hope, for the NL sake, another hot grounder doesn’t go his way.

Can’t believe Cook’s staying in. Lidge available.

By frank

July 16, 2008 12:43 AM | Link to this

Why didn’t you take Cook out of the game!?!?!?!?

By kris

July 16, 2008 12:43 AM | Link to this

no wonder the rockies suck-this is the worst managing i have ever seen. Why not walk for the double play?

By Clint Hurdle

July 16, 2008 12:43 AM | Link to this

Hurdle is trying to be this year’s Tony LaRussa. He sent Cook out for a third inning.

By Rob

July 16, 2008 12:44 AM | Link to this

Where the eff is mccann? At the very least put him in the DH spot! I say we taunt good ole Clit Hurdle when he gets to the ATL.

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 12:44 AM | Link to this

You’ve GOT to be kidding me. Cook might get out of another jam. If he does, and they win, give him MVP.

Martin, by the way, is playing phenomenal defense.

By ugaman

July 16, 2008 12:45 AM | Link to this

As much as I would love to see McCann in the game, Martin’s defense is outstanding. I don’t think Mac would have made the plays behind the plate that Martin has. Let’s hope he gets a chance to hit!

By B. Mac

July 16, 2008 12:46 AM | Link to this

What the EFF?

By DAP

July 16, 2008 12:47 AM | Link to this

how about aaron cook battling tonight? im impressed.

By RC

July 16, 2008 12:47 AM | Link to this

I may not like Hurdle, but Aaron Cook is freakin’ amazing!

By Jake

July 16, 2008 12:48 AM | Link to this

Way to go Mac, taking one for the team. Letting people who probably won’t be back to the all-star game get in. Mac has been to three in three years, and truth be told he should have been starting this year. Its so funny how irony is. Cub fans vote in their players, some of them clearly not allstars, in a game that determines homefield in the World Series. Cubs play great baseball at home, ok on the road. If we, the NL, lose this game the Cubs may have sealed their own fate.

By woogidy

July 16, 2008 12:48 AM | Link to this

That shot of Bud was priceless

By That's It

July 16, 2008 12:49 AM | Link to this

That’s it! McCann’s last chance to play. It was hit for Wright or not play at all.

By DAP

July 16, 2008 12:49 AM | Link to this

DOB thanx for the mccann update. took long enough.

By DesiBrave

July 16, 2008 12:49 AM | Link to this

No McCann …,

By The Goche

July 16, 2008 12:50 AM | Link to this

Yup…definitely rooting for Wright to strike out here…

By The Goche

July 16, 2008 12:53 AM | Link to this

Gotta love sac bunting…brilliant!

Of course, you’ve also got to love having Christian Guzman playing 3rd base in the All-Star game with the game on the line.

By Tomas

July 16, 2008 12:55 AM | Link to this

WHAT A GAME. Best allstar game i’ve seen by far. Dan Uggla has been horrible though, 2 errors and a strikeout with the bases loaded not to mention his double play to end the inning with a runner at third. And Russel Martin has played too good, both defensively, and offensively. I don’t think Mccann will get a chance this time.

By RC

July 16, 2008 12:57 AM | Link to this

I guess it wouldn’t have mattered, but that was TERRIBLE baserunning by Wright. His lead was so short he could have gotten back to the bag without moving his right foot.

By bravesfaninmetsland

July 16, 2008 12:58 AM | Link to this

I’ll tell you, you gotta love that Hurdle used his Cook for three innings. Now hes got choices in the bullpen and the American league really doesn’t. I know the guy had to work magic all three innings. But putting the load on your own guy was really classy

By keylargo

July 16, 2008 1:00 AM | Link to this

AL left on base 31

NL left on base 24

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 1:00 AM | Link to this

Marmo comes in with a 13.50 ERA in his past 12 appearances, with 11 hits, 14 earned runs, three homers and 10 walks in 9-1/3 innings in that stretch.

Hang on.

By CH

July 16, 2008 1:00 AM | Link to this

Clint Hurdle officially beccame a McHATER………..seriously Clint, 13 FRIGGIN innings and no B Mac….what did Mac ever friggin did to YOU…….he dated your daughter or something, cmon Old man,give the kid a break…everybody has played BUT HIM!!!

By kris

July 16, 2008 1:01 AM | Link to this

omg Uggla!!!

By Shamus Thacker

July 16, 2008 1:02 AM | Link to this

Mac’ll have plenty more chances in future All-Star games.

Top-uh-tha-line job tonight DOB. Thanks.

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 1:02 AM | Link to this

That was a brutal hop. Of course it found Uggla.

By BrandonC

July 16, 2008 1:02 AM | Link to this

Mac must have slapped Hurdle in the face before the game. Brian should have been starting and he has yet to even catch a ball. There is no excuse in a game this long not to let everyone get an at-bat…

He’s got the best hitting catcher in baseball warming the bench of gosh sakes.

By cabravesfan

July 16, 2008 1:03 AM | Link to this

can Mac play 2nd base?

By George

July 16, 2008 1:03 AM | Link to this

Put McCann at second.

By The Goche

July 16, 2008 1:05 AM | Link to this

DAP

thanx for the mccann update. took long enough.

Yeah, DOB, you big jerk. If you’re going to be like the only beat writer in the nation doing a running blog during the game, not to mention one of the only actively blogging beat writers in the country, you should be using that blog to tell us exactly what we want to know exactly when we want to know it…that’s what blogging is all about.

So what if you have no way of knowing anyway, Joe Morgan rarely knows anything and it doesn’t stop him from just saying whatever. Same with McCarver. And that’s why we all love them. You probably have often read our praises of their game calling.

So you think you’d learn a thing or two from them. Make some meaningless conjecture. Just throw out an random idea like a proven fact.

Journalism: the saying of whatever you want as though it is a fact…Jeez, you’d think you would learn this stuff in school.

By ObiWanKobe

July 16, 2008 1:06 AM | Link to this

Snydes, I’ll take both paper & plastic when I see you tomorrow

By Tomas

July 16, 2008 1:07 AM | Link to this

Cook, Martin, or Tejada for mvp.

By I Don't Buy It

July 16, 2008 1:08 AM | Link to this

McCann is a nice guy. Team player. May be banged up a little.

However….. this is the all-star game everyone wanted to play in. This is the last Yankee Stadium all-star game. This is the most hyped, biggest all-star game in years. I just don’t see McCann telling Hurdle that he doesn’t care about playing or he’s banged up or whatever. You can’t tell me that kid doesn’t want to say he played in the last all-star game at Yankee stadium rather than he just made the NL all-star team that played in Yankee stadium. I don’t buy that. He’s has to be geeked up and wanting to get in there.

He’s taking a royal screwing from Hurdle. Hope he remembers this night every time the Braves play the Rockies.

By ugaman

July 16, 2008 1:09 AM | Link to this

Mac can’t play second, but Martin probably could. Put Mac in at catcher and Martin at second. That would be a much better situation than Uggla right now. He is too shaken up to be reliable in the field and his bat will suffer for it.

By fastasballs

July 16, 2008 1:09 AM | Link to this

This game is going to end shortly one way or another. If Kazmir comes in he won’t long having just thrown 100 plus pitches on Sunday.

Great game to say the least.

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 1:11 AM | Link to this

One pressbox wag just sat back in his chair and grumbled, “New stadium’s probably finished, don’t you think?”

And not one minute later, they announced this is the longest All-Star Game in history. It’s the first 4-hour All-Star Game.

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 1:13 AM | Link to this

We’re having the second seventh-inning stretch, and B. Webb is coming in to pitch the bottom of the 14th.

Don’t know if a sinkerballer can feel too good with Uggla out there about now….

By The Goche

July 16, 2008 1:13 AM | Link to this

TIE THIS BALL GAME

clap, clap. clap-clap-clap

TIE THIS BALL GAME

clap, clap. clap-clap-clap

To quote the great Tim McCarver “Remember, this time it counts.”

LOL! Let’s see Selig figure out this one.

Maybe this could be the first blow in the death of “it counting” all of the “This times” of the future.

By fred

July 16, 2008 1:13 AM | Link to this

Maybe Hurdle forgot McCann hasn’t played….

Seriously, unless McCann has some sort of unknown injury, this is total b******

I would have McCann PH for Guzman, and put Martin @ 3rd

By Paul W

July 16, 2008 1:15 AM | Link to this

Why isn’t McCann at DH!!!!!!!!! Why is he the ONLY player skipped? maybe Hurdle is too stupid to know that a catcher can reenter if there is an injury-

By DesiBrave

July 16, 2008 1:16 AM | Link to this

Tejada gets my vote for MVP no matter what happens in this game…..,

By keylargo

July 16, 2008 1:19 AM | Link to this

Uggla is going to make amends right now.

By fred

July 16, 2008 1:19 AM | Link to this

Regarding booing Hurdle…

We don’t play the Rockies @ home until September…..We don’t have to worry about booing him…With the Rockies sucking big time this year, going from 1st to last

He may not be manager by then

By Dylan Kight

July 16, 2008 1:21 AM | Link to this

DOB,

You’ve gotten some brutal things being said on the blog lately… About you and to you to which all I can say to those folks is, take a long walk off a short plank. You deserve better my man. Hopefully you get out soon and enjoy your day off before the second half of the season begins. I’ll leave it to the other Dylan…

to all you idiots, only a few yet persistent fools who need to chill out

“Positively 4th Street” by Bob Dylan

You got a lotta nerve To say you are my friend When I was down You just stood there grinning

You got a lotta nerve To say you got a helping hand to lend You just want to be on The side that’s winning

You say I let you down You know it’s not like that If you’re so hurt Why then don’t you show it

You say you lost your faith But that’s not where it’s at You had no faith to lose And you know it

I know the reason That you talk behind my back I used to be among the crowd You’re in with

Do you take me for such a fool To think I’d make contact With the one who tries to hide What he don’t know to begin with

You see me on the street You always act surprised You say, “How are you?” “Good luck” But you don’t mean it

When you know as well as me You’d rather see me paralyzed Why don’t you just come out once And scream it

No, I do not feel that good When I see the heartbreaks you embrace If I was a master thief Perhaps I’d rob them

And now I know you’re dissatisfied With your position and your place Don’t you understand It’s not my problem

I wish that for just one time You could stand inside my shoes And just for that one moment I could be you

Yes, I wish that for just one time You could stand inside my shoes You’d know what a drag it is To see you

Lets keep it to baseball and stop acting like Mets fans, thanks… -Dylan

By ugaman

July 16, 2008 1:22 AM | Link to this

Say what you will about Hurdle, but he has handled the pitching staff pretty beautifully in this game. Webb is now pitching with Lidge still available to close. The AL only has Kazmir left. That would leave the AL having to forfiet after Kazmir pitches. Wouldn’t it be funny if that is how the NL wins it’s first ASG in 10 years;)

By Maybe I Do Buy It

July 16, 2008 1:22 AM | Link to this

Maybe there is something up with McCann. Martin has played what equals a full game now. No reason McCann hasn’t come in to catch by now if nothing was up.

By bravos2249

July 16, 2008 1:22 AM | Link to this

this game going this deep just proves that Mac should’ve been in it before Martin…since..ugh..Martin is more flexible behind the plate..though I think he’s the only catcher I’ve seen in awhile short hop a throw to 1st…then he should be in the game later…and he’s caught 9 innings..don’t you think the Dodger faithful are furious?

By KC

July 16, 2008 1:23 AM | Link to this

believe it or not, I am up , but not watching the all-star game. I will boycott the game as long as it decides home field in the series. Asinine!

By ADC

July 16, 2008 1:23 AM | Link to this

how bout Guzman to 2nd, Wright to 3rd, Mac to Dh…baseball’s a game of confidence and one of our guys ain’t got it anymore.

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 1:23 AM | Link to this

Uggla: 0-for-4 with three strikeouts, three errors, a double play grounded into …

By Chop Chop

July 16, 2008 1:23 AM | Link to this

I think McCann will get in this game. Martin’s been in the game since the bottom of the fifth. I don’t think Hurdle can risk p** the Dodgers off too much.

By BrandonC

July 16, 2008 1:24 AM | Link to this

I honestly think they forgot they were carrying 3 catchers, but even still they are professional managers and shouldn’t be looking over anybody. What a slap in the face to Brian, he’s been sitting on that bench for 5 hours and hasn’t got to play at all.

By Doc Holliday

July 16, 2008 1:24 AM | Link to this

Uggla will win LVP at the end of the game.

By The Goche

July 16, 2008 1:24 AM | Link to this

I don’t think the whole Mac not playing thing is quite as big a deal as people are making. It is true that some people don’t get in for whatever reason.

But it does stink just because Mac is so clearly the top catcher in baseball so far this season, and first he lost the vote, OK it happens, and at least Soto is clearly the second best catcher so far (and also is on my fantasy team). But you just kind of think, OK, so he didn’t get a chance to start, at least everyone knows he’s performing the best in the game.

But then the game goes by and he doesn’t play and you just think “Do people not realize he is that good?”

I mean, it’s one thing to be the guy who doesn’t get to play, but it’s another thing when you are that guy when you clearly are the top player at your position this season.

Just feel bad for him. Still, at least it’s just an exhibition…not like it counts!

By Tomas

July 16, 2008 1:24 AM | Link to this

Man I feel bad for Uggla, if I’m Clint Hurdle i put Martin as my second baseman and mac as my catcher, or cristian guzman on second and martin at third.

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 1:28 AM | Link to this

McCANN IS IN THE GAME, CATCHING

By keylargo

July 16, 2008 1:29 AM | Link to this

You’ve got to consider a tie is possible now. This would be strike II for BS (the commish)

By The Goche

July 16, 2008 1:29 AM | Link to this

HEY! what do you know! Mac!

By StingerSplash

July 16, 2008 1:29 AM | Link to this

I always considered Vito Andolini and Luca Brasi to be excellent negotiators. Perhaps Fehr picked up a tip or two from them. You’ll know if Selig wakes up early one morning screaming “Khartoum!”

Sure, DOB, go ahead and hit Mac’s digits on the cell. I’m sure he’s got it with him. What ball player doesn’t now? Manny does. (sarcasm font unavailable, but intended. Except for the Manny part).

By prattvillenolzfan

July 16, 2008 1:30 AM | Link to this

TO ALL OF YOU COX SUPPORTERS

By McCann not playing tonight, and everyone getting all worked up about it, all this does is show one thing…..

Earlier posts compared Hurdle with Cox…

Well this just shows how this strategy is stupid…

If Hurdle is stupid, and us Braves fans are upset, Then Cox is stupid

Then we need to treat the almighty Cox the same way

IF McCANN WAS COMING IN…WHY DIDN’T HE PINCH-HIT

Totally not right

By Flanders

July 16, 2008 1:31 AM | Link to this

Hallelujah!! Mac is in there…it took a long time for Hurdle but HE IS IN THERE!!. Wake up McFanny! your man is in there, hope he gets an AB.

By cw

July 16, 2008 1:32 AM | Link to this

About Time for Mac.

By ugaman

July 16, 2008 1:32 AM | Link to this

By ugaman

July 16, 2008 1:32 AM | Link to this

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 1:34 AM | Link to this

McCann enters game at 1:27 a.m., bottom 15th inning

I was about to write about how I remembered in 1994, covering the Marlins. “Mr. Marlin” Jeff Conine made the All-Star team, for the first time, and he was the only NL player who didn�t get in the 10-inning game.

He made the team again in 1995, and hit a game-wining homer in a 3-2 NL victory.

I remember every time the Phillies came to town for about a year or so after that 1994 All-Star Game, Marlins fans would boo Phillies manager Jim Fregosi (he managed the �94 All-Star team).

(Incidentally, Fregosi is a Braves front-office guy now, has been for years, a special asst. to the GM)

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 1:37 AM | Link to this

Only guy who hasn’t been used now is Lincecum, who’s sick (as in ill, though he’s also sick as in filthy good)

By The Goche

July 16, 2008 1:38 AM | Link to this

If it’s a tie does that mean we’ll play the World Series at a neutral site?

By A-ville Ranger

July 16, 2008 1:38 AM | Link to this

I’ve seen this here movie before,just your typical away game.

By Ned

July 16, 2008 1:41 AM | Link to this

Thank you LIDGE…you showed why the NL East Sucks….BS!!!! by the ump!.. i saw the replay 3 times….he wanted to go HOME!!! He tagged him OUT!!! Blah, the NL always loses…

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 1:41 AM | Link to this

J.D. Drew is MVP

By DesiBrave

July 16, 2008 1:41 AM | Link to this

Well, will the rest of the NL blame Hurdle for replacing Martin with McCann ? Now we know why Braves lost those 1 run games guys.., I am not blaming McCann here but we have to accept it he needs to shed some weight and get better on his defense….

By keylargo

July 16, 2008 1:41 AM | Link to this

Let me tell you that play at the plate was safe by about 2 inches. I slowed it down on Tivo and that was so close.

By Frumpy

July 16, 2008 1:41 AM | Link to this

Bring in McCann and we lose the game!! No wonder he was holding him back!!! (Joking)

Had he played him earlier and given him a bat, this thing would have been over long ago via a Home Run from B-Mac!!

By Jake

July 16, 2008 1:44 AM | Link to this

Boy, who would have known it would be a Phlliies and Mets closer that would do us in. There you go Cubs fans, you sealed your own fate voting for people who did not belong in this game. Now you know if the cubs make it to the World Series they don’t have the Freindly confines of Wrigley field as the Home field Advantage. Karma, well its a B**

By The Goche

July 16, 2008 1:44 AM | Link to this

One run road losses…

I think Kazmir should be the MVP. Keeping the game alive on two days rest.

By Marc

July 16, 2008 1:44 AM | Link to this

What a joke.

By The Goche

July 16, 2008 1:47 AM | Link to this

On a brighter note, who doesn’t love the Bob Brenly commercial for the Taco Bell Fruitista Freeze.

Hilarious…

By ArkyTech

July 16, 2008 1:47 AM | Link to this

0 for 4 with 3 k’s and gidp with bases loaded? Guess now Uggla knows what it ‘s like to be Jeff Francoeur.

Nice showing by NL East tonight……..

By ugaman

July 16, 2008 1:51 AM | Link to this

Hurdle is hilarious on Baseball Tonight on ESPN right now. I love his down to earth attitude.

By The Goche

July 16, 2008 1:56 AM | Link to this

DesiBrave *I am not blaming McCann here but we have to accept it he needs to shed some weight and get better on his defense…. *

He’s not blaming McCann for losing the game, he’s just saying Mac is fat and implying that if he wasn’t he would have gotten Morneau at the plate, thus keeping the team from losing the game.

Big difference.

How ridiculous! Mac made a great play on a throw down the line, on a pretty deep sac fly giving Morneau a nice jump. He went and got the ball and brought it back and made it a close play at the plate.

Mac may not be Pudge back there, but he does a fine job, and works to get better. But he especially good on plays like that. He’s made many a Francoeur outfield assist happen with a great play at the plate.

No catcher could have stopped that from scoring.

Just moronic. Absolutely moronic assertion.

By kcr211

July 16, 2008 1:58 AM | Link to this

I firmly believe that I would have been a greater asset to the NL than Uggla tonight. At least I would have struck out rather than grounding into that inning-ending double play.

By Kev

July 16, 2008 1:59 AM | Link to this

DesiBrave

Why dont you “blame” Hart, with that kind of throw…if it would’ve been to McClouth, they would still be playing….or Lidge with the BB and hits flying everywhere…

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 2:00 AM | Link to this

Just got back from NL clubhouse. McCann is perfectly healthy, and not at all upset about not getting in until the end. He understood that once Russell Martin went in, McCann was going to be sitting around because Hurdle didn’t want to burn all his catchers.

Repeat, Mac is completely healthy. Said it’s best he’s felt all year. “I’m 100 percent,” he said, and called the whole experience “awesome” despite the loss. He said he was just glad to be part of the game, even if it wasn’t until the end.

I’ll transcribe the tape and post the quotes later. Might go back to my hotel first.

He was sweating as he hurried to pack his bag and hustle to the parking lot, because Chipper’s chartered jet was waiting at the airport, and Chipper was waiting out in the car. “Can’t keep our best player waiting,” said McCann, and with that Heap was off.

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 2:04 AM | Link to this

DesiBrave: Ridiculous comment. McCann made a fine play to catch that bad two-hop throw and spin and tag. Guy was safe by the slightest of margins, and McCann made the play as smoothly as possible. It was the throw that was bad, period.

By prattvillenolzfan

July 16, 2008 2:04 AM | Link to this

2 things on ESPN

UGAMAN your dead on..

I didn’t agree with Hurdle’s use of McCann (if he was going in the last inning, he should’ve PH @ the top of the inning…)

However, Hurdle’s press conference showed what a class individual he really is.

2nd

It was bad enough to have to listen to Berman during the HR derby, but now on Baseball Tonight, He is at the helm instead of Karl Ravich..

What an egomaniac…..

By MEB

July 16, 2008 2:06 AM | Link to this

I think McCann should have played second base. Oh well, we’ve kind of gotten used to losing like this. Yuk!

GO BRAVES!!!

By ugaman

July 16, 2008 2:08 AM | Link to this

I can’t stand to listen to Eric Young. He speech is horrible. How did he get that gig on Baseball Tonight. I would rather listen to Joe Morgan, and that’s about as bad a drinking castor oil!

By DesiBrave

July 16, 2008 2:08 AM | Link to this

Guys don’t get me wrong, I love McCann to death , there is no better Offensive catcher out there . Period. But after watching those breath taking defense by Russell Martin I kinda felt Martin would have made a difference there..

If McCann was inserted a few innings earlier he would have ripped one to the RF (315ft) and finished the game right there…

But I have to say this , McCann is still 24year old guy and he has a great future and offense wise he has every quality to become one of the greatest if not the greatest hitting catcher but his defense is just around average as of now.

By FaninFaytown

July 16, 2008 2:12 AM | Link to this

DO you guys really not get it? Even though its an all star game there is still strategy to it? DOB said mac was totally fine and expected it to be how it was- and why not hes one hell of a player and respects the game and is less selfish than people here are. If he is fine then why dont you guys realize how the game works and stop?

By LOSTlover

July 16, 2008 2:13 AM | Link to this

Hurdle didn’t want to burn his catchers? That’s rediculous. Martin played 9 full innings.

I’m not surprised that McCann didn’t complain, but as a Braves fan, I’m furious that he didn’t get a single at bat.

Also, as stated by the brilliant (sarcastic) FOX announcers, catchers can be reinserted into the game if a catcher gets injured. There was no risk in putting McCann in the game. If MAC got hurt, he could have put Martin or Soto back in. There’s no excuse.

This reminds me of when Andruw Jones got shafted in favor of Carlos Beltran two years ago.

By Herschel Talker

July 16, 2008 2:14 AM | Link to this

Who didn’t want to see that game end in a tie? Damn I’m p**.

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 2:15 AM | Link to this

By the way, Mac seemed surprised when I asked him whether he was hurt, whether that was why he didn’t play.

I tried to tell him I needed an explanation so I could provide beat-writer insight for Snydes, after failing to fully explain Mac’s absence from the game while the game was still being played.

Oh, and THIS JUST IN from the interview room: Hurdle was going to go one more inning with Lidge, then if game had continued he would’ve used … yes, David Wright to pitch.

By ugaman

July 16, 2008 2:18 AM | Link to this

I meant, “His speech is horrible”. Oh well, that’s what I get for making fun of how someone talks!

By LOSTlover

July 16, 2008 2:18 AM | Link to this

Some people are saying that Martin should have been in for his defense late in the game, and I completely agree. BUT - I think McCann should have played the middle of the game. Wasn’t Mac 2nd in the fan voting anyway? If Mac had played the 5th-9th, he could have made a big offensive difference.

And who knows, McCann may have been able to shine with his defense just as much as Martin. Keep in mind that Martin had trouble throwing runners out at 2nd, so he wasn’t perfect.

All due respect to Martin, McCann should have been in the game earlier. If he had gotten on, then pinch run with Martin.

By Chop Chop

July 16, 2008 2:24 AM | Link to this

I’m about to pass out, but I figured I’d go find the stupid video clip of Martin tagging Navarro “out” at home…

Here it is…

Dioner Navarro sure looks safe, don’t he?

Eric Young just commented about the damn thing and didn’t seem to notice that Navarro was safe. (The ump may have called the Navarro out, but Blue was wrong.) EY is probably the worst Baseball Tonight “analyst” to come along in, well, a year or two.

(Chris Singleton is probably the best guy they’ve added in years.)

By StingerSplash

July 16, 2008 2:31 AM | Link to this

David Wright would have made the tag on Morneau. Had he been in right field, his throw would have been a clothesline that he would have caught at the plate and made the tag on. Honestly, a two-hopper from the outfield wasn’t going to get anyone, other than Navarro, at that point. McCann did everything possible on a truly woeful throw from Hart.

By bravos2249

July 16, 2008 2:46 AM | Link to this

Martin did make some good plays but on an double play attempt from home didn’t he short hop a throw to first…

By Quack Quack

July 16, 2008 4:21 AM | Link to this

My informed opinion, which is shared by many others, is that someone in “Tesh’s” position, who stands to be financially set for life with his next contract by all accounts, should not employ Scott Boras. It’s that simple. There’s no anti-free agency message there, or anything else that you’re trying to attribute to me.Westy12

what in the he11 is informed about it? It’s not a subject that anybody can be informed about, it’s strictly a matter of opinion…and yours is a totally clueless opinion on that subject. Who in the he11 are you to tell another how to run his life and take care of his family? You some kinda long haired hippie-type pinko f*? what a load of crap. Is the 12 in your handle your age? You better watch out, Tex will have ol’ green-teeth kick you right in the knee.

By Quack Quack

July 16, 2008 5:01 AM | Link to this

In the mean time, I’ll do what any confused blogger would do.

SHAUN!!!!

What’s your take on this? keylargo

Shaun knows stats but he doesn’t have a clue about salaries which are a totally different subject. He’s valuing Tex way too low and claims he will receive a contract for around 15/16 mil per year. Pay attention to that if you want, but be prepared to see it be wrong by about 5mil per year. Those other first basemen have lower salaries because they signed when salaries in general were lower. If the inflation continues, the next time they sign they will get higher contracts than Tex will now.How f**ing hard is that to comprehend?

By IronMan

July 16, 2008 5:17 AM | Link to this

I didn’t see Lou Gehrig out there either. What’s up with that?

And how ironic was it that he actually died from a disease with the same name as his?

By So What Gives

July 16, 2008 7:16 AM | Link to this

DOB you said Hurdle was holding Mac back in case he needed a catcher (per McCann’s understanding) “didn’t want to burn a catcher.” The FOX broadcast team said that the rule for the all-star game was that a catcher could re-enter in the event of injury. They actually commented about that late in regulation I seem to remember.

Do you know if that is in fact the rule? If so, Hurdle should have known that, or maybe he didn’t?

Good thing Mac plays for Bobby. He was prepared to sit there until hell froze over I suppose because Bobby has a history of not using his backup because he might need him in case of injury etc.

By NL Fan

July 16, 2008 7:50 AM | Link to this

Once again the NL loses. But, how could an All-Star team that Chipper Jones can make expect to be good enough to win. Chipper strikes out with a runner on base and J.D. Drew hits a home run with a runner on base to tie the game. It looks like the Braves continue to get rid of the wrong players.

By BravesFanChris23

July 16, 2008 8:11 AM | Link to this

Great All Star Game all around. It was played and won with “small ball”. All the pregame special stuff and the game itself was a fitting way to end the legacy of this Yankee Stadium.

The ending play was not McCann’s fault to be honest, Corey Hart made a weak throw to be even more honest. McCann did the best he could have with that throw. Even with Russell Martin in that position, I think it would’ve been the same result, because the throw was weak to the point it just died coming to home plate.

By Wirthwhile

July 16, 2008 8:15 AM | Link to this

WTF with NY fans booing Papelbaum? No effin class is what. It doesn’t matter cause they aint goin nowhere this year anyway! McCann?—Hello! B Mac leads Soto in every catagory they keep stats on for catchers and he sits for 10 + innings? What the hell was Hurdle thinking? To NL fan-Chipper will make the HOF and I doubt JD Drew will play enough games to qualify!

By BravesFanChris23

July 16, 2008 8:32 AM | Link to this

DOB

Regarding your 2:04a.m. post….

McCann made a fine play to catch that bad two-hop throw and spin and tag. Guy was safe by the slightest of margins, and McCann made the play as smoothly as possible. It was the throw that was bad, period.

Exactly. I’ve been in debates with many ball fans on some sports forums I’m on and I basically used the same point about the throw. The throw was weak to say the very least and it wasn’t exactly the perfect feed to where the catcher could easily be blocking the plate to get the runner out. Because if he was at the plate blocking it, the runner would’ve been safe anyways because of the throw.

I honestly don’t think Martin would’ve made the difference because of the throw. Had the throw had a little more umph and accuracy, it would’ve went into 16th inning.

By Shaun

July 16, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this

BravesFanChris23, DOB, etc., yes, the throw was off but it wasn’t an awful throw. Just one of those situations where it had to be a perfect throw to get him. The ball was hit deep enough that I think we can call that a tough throw for most outfielders, even major league ones. So I wouldn’t blame McCann or Hart. All those baserunners are what hurt.

Then again, the AL should have won in the 10th. That was an amazing inning.

This will go down as one of the best All-Star games of all-time. Too bad there probably weren’t very many people awake to see it.

By weso1

July 16, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this

I guess Hurdle may not have known that you can reenter a catcher due to injury in the all star game. I’d like to see that rule extended to all positions.

Here’s a way to solve the extra innings issue in regards to pitching… Allow each team to bring 2 emergency starting pitchers to the game which they are allowed to us only after all other pitchers have been used. It would basically be like adding 2 alternates to each team.

By Shaun

July 16, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this

Wirthwhile, the booing was about a story in the Daily News that quoted Papelbon suggesting maybe he would close over Rivera. (Heck, even Francona didn’t give a straight answer to the question of who will close, at first.) But, I think you expect the fans to boo. It would be pretty natural in any city for fans to boo a player from their arch rival team who made comments that could be construed as controversial.

Soto was voted in as the starter. Nothing Hurtle could do about that. Yeah, it was kind of odd that McCann seemed to be behind Martin on the “depth chart.” Then again Hurtle sees Martin a lot, being in the NL West, so maybe it’s some bias coming through. Still, McCann doesn’t seem to be upset, according to DOB. It is truly one of those games where you’re just happy to have a front-row seat, I’m sure.

By lewie

July 16, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this

what a game last night….great way to send off the stadium

the Goche

i was thinking that someone like morty could get us Bay while a lesser established player/prospect would net us Nady

either way, i’d like to get one of those 2 along with Loney

By McFann Ô

July 16, 2008 9:14 AM | Link to this

That was pathetic! The most pathetic game I’ve ever seen…

DOB—

You’re 2:04 post was exactly right. I just watched the replay (why?), and Hart did make a bad throw. There was nothing McCann could have done that he didn’t do. It was a great play by Mac, but a bad throw, and the ball was hit so deep. Morneau was going to be safe anyway. (Though, maybe it’s like the announcers say, “A good throw would have had him.”)

I’m real bummed that McCann didn’t get an AB—I mean, real bummed. But I like his attitude about it (as usual)—and, “honestly”, it’s exactly the I expected him to act about it. He was just happy to be there. As Russell Martin said last year, “He’s a good all-around dude.” (But there’s no doubt in my mind that he REALLY wanted to play.)

But still, he should have come in way sooner—to get at least one at-bat! Crazy Hurdle…

When does Colorado come to town???

By lewie

July 16, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this

hurdle should have gotten him in there w/enough time to get at least one AB

By Pamela Y Jones

July 16, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

To me, soriano, big poppy and others did not play and they are rated higher than Brian McCann. If there was anyway that we acknowledge Brian, it it that he made the Allstar team and many,many, many more players did not do that much.

In Houston, the manager did not play Andruw Jones in his Allstar game. The year after he was fired too. Karma is a m#$%f%^&er, isn’t it.

CONGRATULATIONS TO CHIPPER AND BRIAN!!!

By wirthwhile

July 16, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this

Shaun—you’re right about the booing thing. I remeber them showing the NY Daily sports page about Paplebaum’s comment. Thanks

By SeaAtl

July 16, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

Good coverage from DOB and the others on the All Start game, but I can’t find ANY mention of whether or not McCann played, got a hit, scored a run, etc. I see that Chipper got a hit, but how many innings did he play? Did he do much in the field? I was only able to watch a little bit here and there, and would love to get some specifics on these two guys. Help!

By Supes

July 16, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

This all star game was lost when SOTO and FCKADAME were voted in as starters. Nice going CUBS fans, voting with your hearts instead of what the best option to win the game is going to be, since you know your sorry a* team is in the NL and needs every bit of help it can get if they are to win their first WS title in 100 years!

Problem was once the game was headed to extra innnings…other than B-Mac…the NL was left with their “B” all star team which was Clint Hurdle’s doing.

Plus, the NL should have been allowed to have an emergency pitcher…how far away was Cole Hamels since Tim L. was unavailable. As we found out, every man counts! I think it would have made a difference.

SOTO flat out sucked. F*ckadame me was awuful as well.

Another unbelievably bad performance was Dan Uggla who arguably cost the NL the game as well. 3 errors, 2 K’s and a double play. Looks like I’m reading a FRANCINE stat line from 2 weeks ago:smirk:

This all star home field advantage is ridiculous. Needs to go back to being an exhibition game only. Maybe players will relax a bit too.

It works for EVERY other sport mr Bud, but I guess MLB is special! So Special…no, nevermind, don’t sing it!

At least next year game will be in a NL home park, NL gets to bat last (yes, apparently very important)

Hope Mac gets back to the All Star game and starts…hope some of these righteous CUBS fans note that Mac is the best offensive catcher in ML baseball. I don’t care what the stats tell me, I watch games I see other than BMac the closest is Russell Martin and he too wasn’t the starter! Nice going CUBS fans! I’ll mention that if I go to a Braves/Cubs game at the TED in the second half. See if I can get any kind of intelligent response. (I’ll be armed with DOB stats about BMac that they won’t know!)

By chrisklob

July 16, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

Pamela, Soriano and Big Papi didn’t play last night because they are injured and on the DL.

By Shaun

July 16, 2008 9:49 AM | Link to this

weso1, how is the two alternate pitchers solution any different than expanding the rosters?

They should probably just make it clear to players that because you are selected doesn’t necessarily mean you are going to play. I think that’s the major issue. Managers still feel the need to try to get everyone in the game, which is understandable.

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 9:49 AM | Link to this

I wrote a story after getting back to my hotel in the wee hours, but I don’t see it posted anywhere on our website. Sorry, folks, I would’ve put it here if I’d known that was going to happen.

Anyway, it was McCann’s reaction to not getting into game until 15th inning, etc. Here’s the story:

By DAVID O’BRIEN dobrien@ajc.com

New York — For 14-1/2 innings and more than 4-1/2 hours of the longest All-Star Game in history, Braves catcher Brian McCann did nothing more than watch from the National League dugout.

He finally entered in the bottom of the 15th inning … and five batters later the game was over.

Michael Young hit a sacrifice fly and Justin Morneau slid in just ahead of McCann’s sweep tag to give the American League an exhausting 4-3, 15-inning win against the NL in the final All-Star Game at Yankee Stadium.

It lasted 4 hours, 50 minutes, ending at 1:37 a.m. Wednesday. It ended with McCann sitting in the dirt near home plate as American Leaguers whooped it up nearby to celebrate the walkoff win.

“Extremely weird,” McCann said of watching all night and into the morning before he finally put on the catcher’s equipment and got in the game with the clock nearing 1:30. “It’s a long time sitting around, but I was just glad that I got in, glad to be a part of it.

“It was an awesome experience to be here, and a lot of good memories.”

McCann was hit in the right wrist Sunday in the Braves’ last game before the All-Star break, but said he felt great Tuesday — “I’m 100 percent” — and that health had nothing to do with Colorado manager Clint Hurdle’s decision to keep him on the bench until the wee hours.

Chicago Cubs catcher Geovany Soto started and played 4-1/2 innings. The Dodgers’ Russell Martin caught the next 10 before McCann took over in the bottom of the 15th, the last unused position player on either team.

McCann said he understood Hurdle’s reasoning and didn’t have any problem with it.

“It’s one of those things where you can’t burn all the catchers, in case something happened,” said McCann, who made his third consecutive All-Star team. “I was basically the guy who was going to sit until Russell couldn’t go anymore or we needed a pinch-hitter.”

Morneau singled against closer Brad Lidge to start the AL rally in the 15th. Dioner Navarro singled with one out and ex-Braves outfielder J.D. Drew, the All-Star Game MVP, walked to load the bases.

Young flied out to right field and Corey Hart made a poor, two-hop throw to the first-base side of the plate. McCann scooped the throw and spun around to tag Morneau, whose foot reached the plate just ahead of McCann’s mitt with the ball inside.

“Real close,” McCann said of the decisive play. “They said he snuck his foot in, but it was real close. You can’t really argue in the All-Star Game. He made the right call.”

With that, McCann hurried to finish packing his catcher’s equipment bag and get to the car Chipper Jones was waiting in outside. The Braves’ All-Star third baseman and McCann had a jet Jones chartered waiting at the airport to carry them back to Atlanta.

By SeaAtl

July 16, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

DOB - thanks for posting that article about Brian, and for all of the late night & in-between-meetings blogging you’ve done this week.

By lewie

July 16, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this

it looks like hoss is teaching heap more than just the in’s and out’s of hitting

his approach to the game itself is refreshing to see in such a young player

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this

SeaAtl, you’re welcome. I wished I’d had posted it here before I hit the bed at 6 a.m. or so.

By Shaun

July 16, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this

Supes, a B All-Star team?

An emergency pitcher? The “problem” was the game went 15 innings. And, again, managers still feel the need to play get everyone in the game which is understandable but maybe not the best way to handle these things.

Not sure your point about Soto, F******* and Uggla. Uggla had a bad game. Soto and F******* both went, what, 0-for-2? Soto and Uggla deserved to be there and F******* wasn’t an awful choice.

As far as home field advantage, I’m for the team with the best record. Yes, there are problems with that (teams don’t play the same schedules, what if the teams have the same record) but I think it makes the most sense.

But I don’t think it’s a travesty to have the All-Star game decide home field advantage, as a lot of people seem to suggest. It was arbitrary before alternating years. So having the All-Star game decide it is really not much different than that, to me.

And since the All-Star game has decided home-field, the NL has won the World Series twice in five tries. And the NL has won all the ones since then that weren’t sweeps. So I don’t know if home-field has been all that much of an issue since then.

By Braves20

July 16, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this

Gee - another big game, another BS by Billy Wagner’s name - shocking.

By DAP

July 16, 2008 10:18 AM | Link to this

DOB seriously, man, youve done a great job getting lots of great info for us. we die-hard braves fans are lucky to have you.

By DAP

July 16, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

ive been talking alot lately about the braves signing milton bradley in the offseason. im hoping that the rangers dont extend him before that, or trade him to a team other than the braves, that might extend him. but, the rangers know they arent winning this year, and instead of hanging on to bradley, they might be hoping to flip him into a few players that might help them win in the future. do you guys think we could pull off another trade with texas? i would consider putting together a trade to bring bradley over, if we could sign him to an extension.

By prattvillenolzfan

July 16, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

HEY DOB

While the Braves nation is rightfully upset about McCann not playing but 1/2 an inning (especially when the guy he replaced hit 2nd in the top of the same inning)

I was wondering

Is any other media outlets mentioning anything about McCann being inserted so late and not getting an AB

Or are we the only ones making a big deal about it……….

By lewie

July 16, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this

agreed dap

DOB dominates for the diehards

By Lew

July 16, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this

Shaun-You’re right that Home Field doesn’t always translate to WS wins. However, I think last night’s game points out that having it as the determining factor is not going to work. Had McLouth’s drive been a Home Run in the top of the 15th and we had been tied again and had to play the 16th inning , McCann would have been the only player left on either team. What exactly, would they have done if another tie had resulted?

As long as players’ teams will hold them out (I’m sure the Rays are p!$$ed about Kazmir and the DBacks about Webb), there is no way that this can be in any way considered an equitable situation. Time for another change.

By DCbrave

July 16, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

Wow! That Dan Ug(g)ly! Definitely not pretty.

By David O'Brien

July 16, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this

prattville, it wasn’t a story outside of Atlanta, no. But that’s normal. I mean, there were a LOT of storylines coming out of that game, and Mac not playing until the end was not a big deal outside of Braves Nation. Too much other stuff happening for it to be.

By Phi

July 16, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

Ok, I’m still mad. 15 innings of All Star baseball and McCann gets to play for an inning, if even that? AND no at-bats? Boo!!

By prattvillenolzfan

July 16, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

LEW

You are right about home-field being tied to the all-star game. It is absolutely ludricus that this happens.

However, in all of Selig’s amazing wisdom, he still thinks this is the right thing. He is still convinced that this works. He mentioned that everyone he talks to likes the idea….Who is he talking to… In all of the polls I’ve seen, the votes are almost 75% in favor of changing the system….Base the Homefield on some sort of merit….

To everyone blaming the Cubs for voting in so many starters, get over it….

All the Cubs fans are doing is what they are supposed to be doing, voting for their team….

I can assure you this..Chipper would not have been named to the All-star team if NOT for the national support…..

By chris

July 16, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this

DOB,

I share in the disappointment of many fans who wanted to see McCann bat. I do think that he very well might have pinched hit for Martin late in the game but Martin’s last two at-bats were against lefties (Sherill and Kazmir).

Chris from MD

By prattvillenolzfan

July 16, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this

Before anyone complains, I meant that Chipper wouldn’t have been named a starter if not for the national media

By Shaun

July 16, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

Lew, I think you are talking about two related yet separate issues in your 10:44: a) What to do about All-Star games that are tied for a long time and running out of players, and b) whether the All-Star game should decide home field.

The solution to the first issue is to make sure players understand that they may not get to play and make sure the teams have plenty of players left if the games goes extras.

Managers are still trying to get everyone into the game. Roster expansions haven’t helped at all.

Then they could set a limit: If the game ends in a tie after so many innings, inter-league play decides home-field or something.

As far as the second issue, I think best record is the most logical way to decide home-field. I’d be a huge supporter of that over the All-Star game deciding home-field. However I don’t think it’s a big deal that the All-Star game decides it. Basically, in past years, it was a coin flip—alternating years. So I don’t see how having the All-Star game decide it is any better or worse than alternating years.

By Thrillhouse44

July 16, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

It stinks that we didn’t get to see McCann play more. But his reaction is nice to read. Plus, isn’t his not playing actually a good thing for the Braves team? I’m glad he’ll come back well rested instead of having caught the 10 innings that Martin did.

By chris

July 16, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

DOB,

On a related note, I don’t know about the rest of you, but I get some what perturbed by how underrated McCann is. I always here how Mauer and Martin (and VMart to some extent) are the best catchers in baseball. This year Soto’s name is mentioned with them. Soto has done what he has done for half a season and McCann’s numbers are still better than his and Martin’s. For overall offensive production, I believe McCann is second to none. I’m not sure why he is so often overloked.

Chris from MD

By Anders

July 16, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

My seats last night were off of first base with a perfect view of the NL dugout and for what it’s worth to you guys nobody looked more excited or more into the game than McCann. It would be nice if we had more guys acting like him as opposed to big leaguing it all the time.

Line of the night overheard from one of the many Yankee fans sitting around me. “Wow, look at Chipper Jones’ average! I didn’t realize how well he’s hitting this year. How come we never bought that guy?”

He was dead serious.

By Michael Procton

July 16, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

I disagree, pratt…I thought fans were supposed to vote the BEST players into the All-Star game. I don’t know about you, but I didn’t make a lot of votes for Matt Diaz this year.

chris, good point about the LHPs the AL had going at the end of the game. I thought the same thing. Sucks for Mac, but tactically (without knowing how the other NL hitters fare against lefties), it didn’t necessarily make sense for Mac to PH, particularly with regards to position flexibility. Christian Guzman was already at 3rd, where he’s never played in the majors. Russell Martin’s played a little 3rd, so Guzman could have been PH-ed for, but he’s a switch hitter. That’s the only position they had covered where Mac could have come in other than catcher.