AJC > Sports > Braves > Blog > Archives > 2008 > August > 08 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.US“The Cobra” fits as Braves closer
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Phoenix — Sitting here on the balcony of my Scottsdale hotel, smoking an Arturo Fuente stogie and looking within some numbers of this Braves season.
But first, let’s discuss “The Cobra.”
Yes, I really like that nickname for Mike Gonzalez. Unless Gonzalez says he hates it when I ask him about it, we’ll use it as long as he continues doing that trippy, rocking, swaying, tension-building, batter-mesmerizing, back-and-forth motion on the rubber before his delivery, which most of you surely would agree with me is absolutely cool and essential that he continue.
Cobra or Gonzo, both solid nicknames, but Cobra is more original, and fitting. Dave Parker, another former Pirate, was the original Cobra (hey, I didn’t say it was totally original) and he was The Man, one of my favorites back in the day.
Anyway, Gonzalez. The dude is impressing me, he really is. I wasn’t expecting a whole lot, or, I should say, I didn’t know quite what to expect this season after he returned from his 12-month Tommy John-surgery rehab.
He’s quickly returned to dominant form. Maybe not quite as consistently overpowering as he was in his 24-for-24 saves season with Pittsburgh in 2005, but pretty close, and seemingly getting closer by the day.
He’s converted all five save opportunities this season and has a 2.45 ERA and .203 opponents average in 18 appearances, but those numbers don’t do justice to his recent performance.
Gonzalez gave up three hits and two runs in his second appearance back from the DL on June 22. Since then, he’s posted a 1.65 ERA and .186 opponents’ average in 16 games, allowing 11 hits, three earned runs and just three walks with 19 strikeouts in 16 innings.
At the very least, if he stays healthy he gives the Braves a solid backup closer for 2009. But the way the Soriano thing has gone, it wouldn’t surprise me if the Cobra is penciled in for the full-time role.
Do people realize it’s been more than four years since Gonzalez blew a save? That was in his rookie year, on June 25, 2004, at Cincinnati.
In 174 appearances since then, he’s put up these splendid numbers: 2.15 ERA, .210 opponents’ average, 35-of-35 saves converted, 171-1/3 innings, 131 hits (six homers), 75 walks, 200 strikeouts.
That’s dominance. Rock on, Cobra.
The 2-hole’s been a hole: Here’s one that I came across. Wondering just how much the Braves have missed Edgar Renteria’s work in the 2-hole, I went to see how the Braves have done from that spot this year compared to last.
Wow, what a stunning difference.
In 2008, the Braves led the National League with a .329 average and .393 OBP from 2-hole hitters, a full 20 points higher than the next-best batting average or OBP at the position (Cardinals, .309 and .372). The Braves’ .477 slugging percentage trailed only the Cardinals (.498).
And this season? The Braves are dead last in the NL with a .247 average from the 2-hole position. Yes, they went first-to-worst, at least so far, with an 82-point drop. Their slugging percentage has suffered a huge 139-point drop to .338, a full 25 points lower than the next-lowest in the NL.
And their .317 OBP is 75 points lower and ranks 11th in the league this season.
Like I said, wow. Yikes. That’s a huge dropoff in every way. The Braves had 66 extra-base hits including 16 homers last season from 2-hole hitters, including six homers from Renteria and — this will surprise you — six homers from Matt Diaz, who hit .381 (24-for-63) with a robust .746 slugging percentage in 63 at-bats in the 2-hole last season.
Edgar hit .341 with a .403 OBP in 370 at-bats in the position, and Willie Harris hit .378 with 11 extra-base hits and a .420 OBP in 82 at-bats in the 2-hole. The Braves had five players with more than 60 at-bats in that position last season, the other two being Yunel Escobar (.279 in 68 at-bats) and Kelly Johnson (.244 in 86 at-bats).
If you’re following, you know what I’m getting to: The only two players who didn’t thrive in significant at-bats in the 2-hole last season - Escobar and Johnson - are the two who’ve gotten the bulk of the at-bats in the position this season.
Escobar has done fine in the 2-hole this season, batting .286 with 13 doubles, a triple, three homers and 30 RBI in 238 at-bats, with a .351 OBP and .387 slugging percentage. Not as good as three others did last season in 60 or more at-bats, but at least OK.
Johnson has been, well, fairly brutal when batting second this season: He’s hit .217 (25-for-115) with eight doubles, two homers, eight RBI, a .297 OBP and .339 slugging percentage.
Mark Kotsay has hit .259 with just one extra-base hit in 54 at-bats in the 2-hole, and four other Braves have 25 or fewer at-bats in the role.
OK, power’s down to 44 percent on my laptop battery, and the temperature is climbing out here, so let’s move along quickly. By the way, haven’t heard anything yet on either the Rafael Soriano MRI or Tim Hudson’s surgery today, both of which took place (or in Hudson’s case, may still be taking place) at Dr. James Andrews’ Braves annex in Pensacola, Fla. (actually not a Braves annex, just seems that way these days).
If we don’t get any word before then, we’ll at least know after the clubhouse opens around 3:10 p.m. (6:10 Eastern) or so, though I won’t be able to get back upstairs immediately to write anything, so hopefully the PR man with the Braves will tell us something before we head downstairs from pressbox around 3 p.m. BDT (Broiling Desert Time).
The home-road thing: We knew it would eventually start to even out, and it has. Or has anyone not noticed that the Braves are actually a better road team than a home team lately?
They are 13-13 with a 3.70 ERA in their past 26 road games, and 8-17 with a 5.15 ERA in their past 25 home games. The Braves have averaged just over five runs per game on the road in that stretch, and just 3.6 runs per game during that sad stretch of home games.
OK, a tune. Let’s go out with the Man in Black.
“I STILL MISS SOMEONE” by Johnny Cash
At my door the leaves are falling
A cold wild wind will come
Sweethearts walk by together
And I still miss someone
I go out on a party
And look for a little fun
But I find a darkened corner
‘Cause I still miss someone
Oh, no I never got over those blues eyes
I see them everywhere
I miss those arms that held me
When all the love was there
I wonder if she’s sorry
For leavin’ what we’d begun
There’s someone for me somewhere
And I still miss someone
Oh, no I never got over those blues eyes
I see them every where
I miss those arms that held me
When all the love was there
I wonder if she’s sorry
For leavin’ what we’d begun
There’s someone for me somewhere
And I still miss someone
And I still miss someone….
Services »
Comments
By an oberserver
August 8, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this
first?
By J
August 8, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
Soriano certainly has the stuff to be a closer when he’s not battling arm soreness, but I don’t see how Cobra can’t be the closer to start next season. To be honest, if they’re both healthy, I’d like to see them both get chances to close out the game. Having both a righty and a lefty that are capable of closing could be quite an asset.
By Joe
August 8, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this
first
By StayClassy
August 8, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this
I’m Ron Burgundy ?
By kirknga
August 8, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this
I wonder how many think Gonzalez’s rocking back and forth is just an “antic”? Mark Grace was equally amused and chagrined on last night’s telecast.
I see nothing wrong with it, but this being baseball, I bet there are those who believe he is “trying to show up” the guy at the plate.
By Bawlmer Brave
August 8, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this
Cobra rocks.
By timthebrave
August 8, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this
DOB “At the very least, if he stays healthy he gives the Braves a solid backup closer for 2009.”…..No way this guy is a backup! I agree that the Cobra rocks! He just has that closer mentality. What a great pick up by the Braves…Go Braves!
By aefwb
August 8, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this
Any truth to the rumor that the Braves wanted to give up another run last night just so that they could get that one-run away game bugaboo off of their back??
By Couch Tater
August 8, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this
Naja naja is the genus for the Indian Cobras. Good chant for Turner Field…(Next year)
By David O'Brien
August 8, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this
kirknga, as I’ve said: I think it’s great, long as he’s having success with it. but if he starts struggling or getting hit, folks will be all over him for that exaggerated delivery, or pre-delivery, whatever you want to call it.
but long as it’s working, i sure wouldn’t change it. it’s got to be distracting a bit for hitters, at least initially.
By DAP
August 8, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this
10paul good point on the last blog about the possibility of trading kelly for a power bat and signing hudson. i didnt think about it that way.
By Deep Throat
August 8, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this
I sure hope the Braves plan on giving Mike Gonzalez a two-year deal this offseason like they did with Soriano last offseason and he should no-doubt be on Wren’s “untouchable” list. This guy has got to be the Braves’ 2009 closer. Who else can they count on? Soriano? Boyer?
By ObiWanKobe
August 8, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this
How about “Salt” as a nick-name for Charlie Morton??? As in “Morton’s Salt”. Not Salty though…
By P Boll
August 8, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this
Hey DOB, what do you think Bobby is gonna do with Infante now that Chipper is back? He has been too good lately to keep him out of the lineup.
By Jeff321
August 8, 2008 5:14 PM | Link to this
Soriano is a has been! He started giving up “jacks” somewhat regularly last year.. And what happens next? His arm is sore, eh?
Now, of course if they find something actually wrong with said arm.. I’ll admit being wrong. But, until then — take my word for it!
By DAP
August 8, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this
i didnt notice the home/road thing evening out as much as ive just noticed the braves are bad.
By McFann ;Ô;
August 8, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this
McFann, it varies widely, and I mean really widely.
Some days, Cox and a coach or two will be there at noon for a 7 p.m. game. Some players will get there not long after, though most usually seem to arrive around 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Thanks, Chief! (Thanks for the new blog, too. I like that nickname for Gonzalez, too.)
Grove went 2-4 for the Cubs today, before being lifted for a pinch runner. But he got another of his infamous strikeouts…that’s 98 for the Cubby Catcher. Tsk tsk…
That game, BTW, is in a 2-2 tie in the 11.
By Goodoleboy58
August 8, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this
I’m sure Orel Hershiser would be pretty critical of The Cobra’s pre-pitch ritual… But as long as its working and he’s nailing down the 9th who cares.
By TennesseePaul
August 8, 2008 5:24 PM | Link to this
I like “Cobra” as a nickname. Makes me want to go on a 2 week rant of “SIGN COBRA TO A 12 YEAR EXTENSION NOW!!!” At any rate, I’m glad we got this guy and I wouldn’t mind seeing an extension offered to him. Not 12 years though. If he can stay this good, and K-Rod gets his 75 million he’s seeking, then any signing up of Cobra for an extended period for less would be a wise move.
By Couch Tater
August 8, 2008 5:26 PM | Link to this
Sorry couldn’t resist. Who would be nicknamed Gopher Snake?
By Goodoleboy58
August 8, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this
DOB-
What is the latest in the season a modern age team has gone without having a single OF hit the double digit mark in HR? We got to be creeping up on the record right?
By superadam
August 8, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this
The cobra rocks(pun intended) I have said since we got him he is the best left handed reliever in baseball( not trying to debate just a fan), hope he stays closer, DOB have you seen his car? My best friend custmized it, I got to drive in it, pretty nice stuff. Well thanks for all you do DOB
By monty
August 8, 2008 5:35 PM | Link to this
Nick name Gonzalez “Gonzilla” and when he comes in from the bullpen have a soundtrack with the old Godzilla scream from the “50’s” and the walking sound of the earth shaking as he strolls in! Cool!
By richbrave
August 8, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this
$$$$ - Lock up GONZALEZ now, and OHMAN too!!!!.
By Couch Tater
August 8, 2008 5:39 PM | Link to this
By the way, good song.
By Hmm
August 8, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this
Quietly Omar Infante is 2 for his past 12 and his OBP is now lower for the season than Kelly Johnson and Yunel Escobar.
He will probably regress to his career average.
By Lew
August 8, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this
Rockin and a rollin, rockin and a reelin, Cobra Man.
Sorry Brian Wilson.
By N Nine
August 8, 2008 5:48 PM | Link to this
A normal day for COBRA,
As the COBRA sits impatiently in the pen..he looks for his next victim. Then suddenly COBRA eyes his next pry and rattles out from the back. He charges out quickly and gets ready to insert his Poisonous venom to the next subject. As the venom settles in COBRA knows he’s done his job and promptly goes over to meet his friend, B. Mccann to congratulate the good work. The COBRA warnes if he is rocking around harder he is more prone to attacking without notice.
By N Nine
August 8, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this
my good dreams are worth repeating! 1.Duchsherer/Lincecum
2.Jurrjens
3.Greinke
4.Campillio
5.Open..Morton/glavine/smoltz/someone off the streets
Closer: COBRA
By AGTfan
August 8, 2008 6:09 PM | Link to this
I like Cobra too. And I definitely agree that he has that closer attitude. No doubt in my mind who should be the 2009 closer.
By N Nine
August 8, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this
some of our former players and current stat:
Horacio Ramirez (kc) 1-1 2.74 era Ron Mahay (kc) 5-0 2.62 era Kyle Davies (kc) 5-2 4.41 era Joey Devine (oak) 3-0 1.11 era Dan Meyer (oak) 0.00only 2 games no recrd Willie Harris (nats) .253 9HR 31 RBI Pete ORR (nats) .225 0HR 3RBI Ryan Langerhans(nats) .258 0HR 5 RBI Salty (TX) .235 3HR 24 RBI Matt Harrison (TX) 3-2 6.46 era Andruw Jones (LA) .164 3HR 14RBI Adam Wainwright (STL) (DL) 6-3 3.14
no reason except curious. Did noticed plent of good pitchers and plenty of bad hitters!
By N Nine
August 8, 2008 6:26 PM | Link to this
“I’ll probably take him out to dinner, wine and dine him, let him see the O.C. and L.A.,” “If I’ve got to put a mask on and threaten him to sign at night when he walks to his car, I’ll do it” Torii Hunter
guess Hunter thinks TEIXEIRA will eventually sign with LAA.
By Andy K.
August 8, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this
Huddy’s surgery was sucessful, press release says.
By TennesseePaul
August 8, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this
The Straight And The Narrow
by Spiritualized
The trouble with the straight and the narrow is it’s so thin, I keep sliding off to the side and the Devil makes good use of these hands of mine.
And if Jesus is the straight path that saves then I’m condemmed to live my whole life on the curb. On the crossroad to the Devil I’ll dwell, and I’ll count my years.
You know that I got a little something I should say. I guess that I’m just so easily led astray. It’s alright because I know my own way back home from here.
And I don’t fall off the wagon, you know. I take a dive and go as deep as I can go. Don’t hold your breath because I’m coming up slow this time.
You know I’ve got a little problem or two. I guess that I keep on taking a few. I’ve been told its not the best thing that I can do, right now.
And I don’t go looking for my sins, you know. They come out waiting and I just get on and go. Don’t hold your breath because I’m coming up slow this time.
The trouble with the straight and the narrow is it’s so thin, I keep sliding off to the side and the Devil makes good use of these hands of mine.
By StingerSplash
August 8, 2008 6:37 PM | Link to this
Cobra? I love that movie! Stallone was awesome! Shoulda gotten an Oscar that year.
By kirknga
August 8, 2008 6:44 PM | Link to this
DOB
I was questioning anything you said. My thoughts were about players coming to bat and what some of them maybe be thinking.
By stogie
August 8, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this
Props on the Fuente
By StingerSplash
August 8, 2008 6:50 PM | Link to this
Actually, the production company responsible for that movie should have charged with reckless abuse of celluoid and if such a crime doesn’t exist, it otta, if only to make sure crap like “Cobra” is never produced again.
By Joe
August 8, 2008 6:56 PM | Link to this
will the service on Tuesday AM be on tv? I hope so cause I cant get off of work to go.Also, Peavy will be in a Braves uniform next year!!!
By Ed Glennon
August 8, 2008 7:03 PM | Link to this
No one likes to mention it but is there a less impressive mid-season addition than Kasey Kotchman? He has certainly been a dud so far.
By N Nine
August 8, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this
Way too early to judge— Ed Glennon. I cant ever judge an individual in 8 days.
By McFann ;Ô;
August 8, 2008 7:09 PM | Link to this
I can’t wait till next week. I am so over these late-night games.
GO PIRATES!!
(Gotta have some baseball to hold me over till 9:40.)
By McFann ;Ô;
August 8, 2008 7:10 PM | Link to this
Ah crud. The Pirates are in a rain delay.
That’s my luck for ya.
By McFann ;Ô;
August 8, 2008 7:13 PM | Link to this
My bad. That’s a “Ceremonial Delay”—not sure what kind of ceremony…anybody know?
By Salt Lake Brave
August 8, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this
Hey Ed, before you judge our first baseman why don’t you learn to spell his name. It’s Casey Kotchman, Ed with a C
By David O'Brien
August 8, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this
Chuck sent down.
Chipper’s in lineup.
Soriano’s MRI “inconclusive,” and he’ll start a throwing program. If doesn’t improve, next step will be to check out the ulnar nerve.
Hudson surgery went as expected, termed a “success.”
By TennesseePaul
August 8, 2008 7:20 PM | Link to this
McFann: This is prime time for me. Not too often I get this. It’s nice to be able to go home after the day is done and still be able to go somewhere to watch the game.
By JerseyGil
August 8, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this
The Phillis is inductee Juan Samuel to the Wall Hall Fame in th
By JerseyGil
August 8, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this
The Phillis is inductee Juan Samuel to the Wall Hall Fame in th
By JerseyGil
August 8, 2008 7:22 PM | Link to this
The Phillis is inductee Juan Samuel to the Wall Hall Fame in the Stadium , That the Delay…..GO BRAVES.
By Jeff321
August 8, 2008 7:30 PM | Link to this
McFann ;Ô;
I see Juan Samuel riding around in a car.. and now throwing out the first pitch.
By kirknga
August 8, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this
Horacio Ramirez (kc) 1-1 2.74 era Ron Mahay (kc) 5-0 2.62 era Kyle Davies (kc) 5-2 4.41 era Joey Devine (oak) 3-0 1.11 era Dan Meyer (oak) 0.00only 2 games no…Matt Harrison (TX) 3-2 6.46 era …Adam Wainwright (STL) (DL) 6-3 3.14…
With the exception of Wainwright, I don’t have any regrets about any of the other pitchers. Especially, Davies, Devine, and Ramirez who pitched their way off the team.
I’m glad they’re doing ok now, but they are on other teams now because of their performance, not because the Braves made a mistake.
At this point, Harrison seems a notch below Morton with almost the same amount of innings. Looks like the Braves made the right call there.
By N Nine
August 8, 2008 7:34 PM | Link to this
thx for key updates DOB..soriano has always mystery. Even Dr. Andrews cant figure out..i guess its good news since he doesnt have an obvious tear.
By McFann ;Ô;
August 8, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this
10Paul—
OK! Glad you cann watch it…
Jeff321 and JerseyGil—
Thanks!
By David O'Brien
August 8, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this
Sorry, had to type that stuff quickly so I could do an ondeck and file it for state edition.
Anyway … more of same with the frustrating Soriano situation. The ulnar nerve could be the problem, in which case they’d probably have to do an ulnar nerve transposition, which is what Reitsma had done that year when he was having all the trouble with numbness in the hand or fingers.
MRIs apparently don’t show that type of irritiation or inflammation, in the nerve, the way they do with a ligament. But I’m not doctor, I just play one on a popular TV series (House).
By bravos2249
August 8, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this
At this point, Harrison seems a notch below Morton with almost the same amount of innings. Looks like the Braves made the right call there.
AMEN
Morton even has more strikeouts than Harrison…granted Morton has more starts but Harrison had 5 games under the belt with 2 K’s….and he’s (Harrison) only went 7 innings once..his first game
By N Nine
August 8, 2008 7:46 PM | Link to this
With the exception of Wainwright, I don’t have any regrets about any of the other pitchers. kirknga
Wainwright is great but remember—there was no way we would have won division that year if we didnt have J.D. Drew.
By Deep Throat
August 8, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this
Joey Devine (oak) 3-0 1.11 era
Gee, I guess he really could pitch…despite Bobby Cox’s mistreatment of him.
Now Phil Stockman (pre-DL) is getting ‘Devined’ by Cox.
By N Nine
August 8, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this
hey mcfann i was looking online and saw that shane victorino clash with mccann..i have to admit: It still ticks me off by looking poor mccann’s picture. AND to top it off we did not respond. We need to give the phils a little taste of Spoiler redemption. Im sure they did that to make sure we became sellers.
WELCOME BACK CHIPPER JONES—onward to batting title! he came 2nd last year= very capable!!!!
By David O'Brien
August 8, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this
What is the latest in the season a modern age team has gone without having a single OF hit the double digit mark in HR? We got to be creeping up on the record rightGoodoleboy
Not sure, but Aaron Rowand leads the Giants with 10, and he just hit his 10th on Wednesday against the Braves.
By Couch Tater
August 8, 2008 7:57 PM | Link to this
Hey Gil Gil Gil
Your computer has OCD.
By David O'Brien
August 8, 2008 8:00 PM | Link to this
Jurrjens has been pitching very well, and the Braves will need it tomorrow against Dan Haren, who’s 7-1 with a 1.93 ERA in 12 starts since June 1, with 82 strikeouts and 13 walks in 84 innings
By BravesFanInRockies
August 8, 2008 8:02 PM | Link to this
I’m going to shove a stick in this cage again, so —
ccrider (from last blog)
The St. Louis Cardinals and probably every team in baseball will investigate any idea that might be of help, but if you think for one second that they are making decisions on players due to this data, you’re wrong. It is just more info to consider. Shaun, please go back thru DOB articles and quotes from Bobby Cox, his coaches, Frank Wren, ETC. These people give you their observations as they themselves have witnessed watching the players on the field, in the clubhouse and on the road trips It is the personal observations that decide the fate of a team, NOT THE MICHAEL LICHTMAN’s OF THE WORLD
In the words of Col. Potter: horsepuckey!
Front offices rely heavily on statistical analysis to supplement what they see. For one thing, visual observations are subjective. And there’s no way one person can see everything. Stats give you something concrete for comparison. Is O-Dog a better defender than Kelly? I sure think so, but if he’s not getting to as many balls as KJ, then I could be wrong.
If a guy like Lichtman has found “a system” that could give the Cardinals a scintilla of an edge, they’ll use it to evaluate players. That’s the way the game works these days.
I’m not saying the BoSox won two World Series because they hired Bill James, but then again, how long had they waited before hiring him?
If a system like Lichtman’s works, the Cards will win more often than they would have otherwise. If it doesn’t, then plenty of people with pay scales much higher than Lichtman will be looking for work.
By David O'Brien
August 8, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this
This from Jake Cook, Braves radio producer:
The memorial service for Skip on Monday will be broadcast live on 640 WGST, as well as some Braves Radio Network Stations, at 4pm ET. It will also be available on the station website, www.640wgst.com.
Immediately following the service, 640 WGST will air “Remembering Skip,” a retrospective program highlighting his remarkable life and career.
By Goodoleboy58
August 8, 2008 8:07 PM | Link to this
DOB-
Yea maybe Frenchy will hit one tonight and I can quit concerning myself about negative records haha… Try to stay cool in the AZ… Drink lots of water if its anything like the desert here in Iraq this time of year
By kirknga
August 8, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this
N Nine, oh I don’t discount winning the division at all. But out of that entire list you mentioned, I still believe Wainwright is the only one that could have helped this year.
Did anyone notice how reasonable an extension Harren signed? Four-years, $44.75 million. I would have thought he could have gotten much more, but it’s good to see that type of contract in today’s market.
By Goodoleboy58
August 8, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this
I’ve been against it all year but I’ve saw Oliver Perez pitch a few times.. Including tonight and if he’d come for 10 mil that could be a bargain… He’s still pretty young
By Jeff321
August 8, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this
Blanco, CF,Escobar, SS,Jones, C, 3B,McCann, C,Infante, LF,Kotchman, 1B ,Francoeur, RF,Prado, 2B,Campillo, P
By Robert
August 8, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this
DOB
Who got called up to replace Chuck James
By Deep Throat
August 8, 2008 8:42 PM | Link to this
NO OLIVER PEREZ!
He is not that good and the Braves shouldn’t waste any of that 40 million to spend on him. People keep talking about his “stuff”, but that is meaningless if he sucks.
In 2007, he put up a misleading shiney mid-threes ERA. But that ERA is masked by a major league-leading 20 “unearned” runs. Factor those in and his ERA was in the well over 4.
Stay away from Perez.
By proeye
August 8, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this
Cobra? There can only be one Dave. For that matter, we’ve already had a Gonzo as well. Can we be a bit more original? If we can only have one BABE then we can only have one Cobra. Sorry.
How about “Viper” if you want a snake? He throws that ball like one. The ball is like poison to opposing batters right?
How about “Naja”? Which is another name for Cobra.
Hey, I don’t even know why I’m talking about this… Let’s get back to baseball. I know it’s a lost season but come on… ;-)
By N Nine
August 8, 2008 8:52 PM | Link to this
proeye
the SF giants announcers made the name up..and DOB like it—so it will be Cobra unless Gonzo says no.. Do you feel the fire?
By N Nine
August 8, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this
No oliver perez..comment not needed
By Ouch
August 8, 2008 8:54 PM | Link to this
Kelly Johnson hitting .350 against left-handed pitchers this season in 103 at-bats. Good for second highest in the NL among lefty hitters vs. lefty pitchers with a minimum 100 at-bats.
Bobby Cox: “don’t confuse me with the facts or stats.”
By Tomas
August 8, 2008 9:03 PM | Link to this
Goodoleboy, I agree with you on Oliver Perez. DOB, by the way, the Giant broadcasters gave him a couple of nicknames, the staggering bartender, and The Cobra.
By McFann ;Ô;
August 8, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this
N Nine—
Ticks me off, too! I haven’t seen that play since the last time they re-showed it on SportSouth…and I don’t plan on watching it on purpose ever again! I cann still see it in my mind, and every time I do I say a prayer of “Thank You” to God that it wasn’t worse.
Last night we saw a thing on the Nightly News of a girl from China who injured herself in gymnastics in 1998—she broke her neck and is now paralyzed (she cann move her arms pretty good). Couldn’t help but think, “What if Victorino had hit Brian in the neck?” Right then and there I saw a mind concussion as a blessing…
But that picture of BMac lying there motionless…ugh, I can’t bear to think about it! That was such a scary moment…
WELCOME BACK, U Kno Who!! Whoo-hoo! Maybe they’ll win at least two in this series!
By Saltywoody
August 8, 2008 9:04 PM | Link to this
I’m with Deep Throat…NO OLIVER PEREZ.
I do not want a Pirates’ cast-off. Nor do I want a guy that has ever played for the Mets, unless his name happens to start with a “G” and end in “lavine.” And even then, it takes some getting used to.
I’m convinced Ruben Gotay is a spy for them.
By MP
August 8, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
love gonzo’s consistency but i’m not much for the “cobra-esque” moves before the batter’s even in the box. this is PRO ball and it seems a bit ‘little-league’ IMO. it’ll look even sillier if he’s off his game one day and starts getting ripped …
reminds me of the 10 year old turd that hops in the batter’s box, sticks his bat out like he’s going to bunt, then waggles the hell out of it to throw off the kid toeing the rubber. not illegal, but sure makes the kid, his team, and his parents look like losers.
By McFann ;Ô;
August 8, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this
Oh, and, DOB—
I was just talkin’ about the weather to get at you for talkin’ about the great weather in San Fran. All in good fun, of course.
Yeah, I bet Arizona has some different Falls…weather-wise, I mean.
By Saltywoody
August 8, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this
If Gonzo is “The Cobra” because of his rocking, does that mean Frenchy is “The Vacuum” because of his sucking?
By BossLady
August 8, 2008 9:18 PM | Link to this
I like Cobra too. I know he looks so good that I don’t know what to do.
He has a threateing approach. I don’t wish Soriano any bad , but I want Cobra
Actually he is the best looking Brave, although Kotsay is bringing up the back
Ooh, when he rock and reel I can’t say what that is…not on a blog
By BossLady
August 8, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this
I’ve been watching Talk To Me, the Petey Green story. I remember the day back when all this happened and I am drinking my Belvedere.
Time for the Braves and I am outta here
By BayAreaSteve
August 8, 2008 9:31 PM | Link to this
Good stuff, Saltywoody, your 9:14.
Wurlitzeresque.
By Lee in S GA
August 8, 2008 9:36 PM | Link to this
I thinking Chuck James has to be close to a club record for trips back and forth from the majors to the minors.
By David O'Brien
August 8, 2008 9:39 PM | Link to this
Oh, so THIS is the last place on earth still playing one of the worst songs ever recorded, “The Heat is On.” Good to know that.
Who in the marketing dept or in-game entertaining at Chase Field hears that each night and goes, “I just love that we play that. Get it, the heat is on? It’s hot here, and that reminds everyone who lives here in 100-degree weather for much of the year that, indeed, it’s hot. The heat is on. I love it.”
Who? Why?
By David O'Brien
August 8, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this
BossLady, I loved that movie Talk To Me. It’s criminal that more didn’t see it. Everyone who hasn’t, go rent Talk To Me. You’ll like it.
And Bank Job, by the way. Bank Job is a great flick I just saw on DVD, about six months after it hit theatres. Great flick, a true story about a famous bank robbery in London in the 1970s. Jason Stratham stars in it. Good actor.
By Matt
August 8, 2008 9:44 PM | Link to this
Gram Parsons version of that song is even better!
By David O'Brien
August 8, 2008 9:47 PM | Link to this
Someone asked who got called up to replace Chuck James.
Some guy named Chipper Jones did.
But seriously, Chipper came off DL, you know?
As for James, Glavine will take his place in rotation next week, provided Glavine has no problems in his Saturday rehab start. James’ turn would have been Monday, and that’s an off day. So it worked out well.
By David O'Brien
August 8, 2008 9:49 PM | Link to this
Saltywoody, that was classic. You might be on to something with your Gotay theory.
By Couch Tater
August 8, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
Campillo seems to have the same disposition good or bad.
By David O'Brien
August 8, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
Speaking of good nicknames, J.D. Drew and the Cardinals used to call Stephen Drew “Dirt” when he’d work out with the Cardinals sometimes when J.D. played for them.
Why “Dirt?” His name’s Stephen Oris Drew. S.O.D.
By N Nine
August 8, 2008 9:56 PM | Link to this
During his first 39 career Major League starts, James went 19-12 with a 3.73 ERA and allowed an average of 1.40 homers per nine innings
But in the 16 starts he’s made since July 31 of last year, he’s gone 5-7 with a 7.26 ERA and seen opponents hit an average of 3.03 homers per nine innings
“It’s definitely been a strange year,” James said. “I thought last year was bad, when I was trying to stay above .500. Now that doesn’t seem that bad.”
Deep down i feel bad for chukie. Such a promising start to his career.
By McFann ;Ô;
August 8, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this
Hey, Mark Bowman…
By Jeff321
August 8, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this
Talk to Me was great!
Can somebody find the Prado lovers? He just hit a double with the bases loaded, eh!
By David O'Brien
August 8, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this
By the way, before tonight Francoeur had a .215 average in 90 games since April 23, with a .279 OBP and .318 slugging percentage.
COUCH TATER: You are correct. His demeanor never changes, on the field or in the clubhouse. He’s an friendly guy, just real quiet. I like him.
Someone asked about Prado: He’s also quiet around everyone but his little circle of friends on the team, or at least it appears that way. Good guy, though. Respectful of others, all that. Just serious all the time, trying to carve out a career and establish himself. You pull for him if you know him, because he’s done everything he’s ever been asked and works hard.
By Andy K.
August 8, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this
VOTE MARTIN PRADO FOR EVERYDAY JOB!!!! Seriously, the dude has “it” he should be playing.
By McFann :Ô:
August 8, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this
Deep down i feel bad for chukie.
Me, too.
By N Nine
August 8, 2008 10:13 PM | Link to this
prado is a hitting machine. He is above avg hitter with below avg defense…wait..sounds fimilar
By N Nine
August 8, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this
You guys may disagree with me, but im more SOLD on prado than fante…Infante however appear better with the glove..What you think?
By David O'Brien
August 8, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this
By the way, anyone thinking about attending Skip’s funeral on Monday. I guess that church isn’t nearly big enough to handle the crowd that might turn out, so they’re suggesting that fans who can attend the Tuesday morning memorial service at the ballpark do that instead.
Just passing it along. it’s gonna be crowded Monday, and there’s not much parking at the church, which is on Peachtree near the south edge of Buckhead.
By McFann :Ô:
August 8, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this
Mark…
By David O'Brien
August 8, 2008 10:31 PM | Link to this
In the 14 games when Chipper was on the DL, Infante hit .317 (19-for-60) with seven doubles, two homers and 11 RBI.
By Couch Tater
August 8, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
Most everbody’s hitting. Did I hear Green Onions?
By SeattleBravesFan
August 8, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this
DOB…speaking of deliveries…i must have missed the memo as I have seen DEMPSTER pitch several times recently and not one mention of his odd hand/glove motions. Do you happen to know the story behind it? Seems like a rather odd thing to do with your hands and he repeats is so well. Kind of like Nen’s toe tap. I was always taught to keep things simple hitting and pitching when I was in high school…Anyways, just curious if you know…And love the name on Gonzalez, great stuff from him, good guy to have on the team.
By Supes
August 8, 2008 10:40 PM | Link to this
DOB you have brought us such joy today with the news sir…no more Chuck James! Rejoice oh Braves Nation, as we no longer have to endure watching the opposing team (that day) take BP against our beloved Braves.
So long Chuck, don’t let the door hit you on the a&& on the way out, and don’t come back until you learn how to throw your fastball down, and learn a 3rd pitch that you can mix up second time through the order.
Campillo gave up that bomb to “Dirt”…but otherwise looking sharp.
I’ve been really impressed by Jorge, and the last 2 starts of Charlie Morton as well. Something to be optimistic about the rest of the way.
Some clutch hits by Prado and Infante…and as usual FRANCINE hits into the DP the last inning. I guess you can shave the beard, but results remain the same.
Braves need to win this game. As DOB pointed out…the next 2 games will be very tough with Haren and Webb back to back.
If somehow the Braves manage to win this series it will be big towards building a bit of confidence for the last 6 weeks of the season.
BTW…I know the Braves were really high on Connor Jackson, but his fielding is really below average…everywhere so it seems. He swing the bat though. I think getting Casey Kotchman was for the best. Much better defensive player than Jackson will ever be, and he’ll continue to improve offensively.
For the first time in 2 weeks Braves can actually field a major league lineup (with the exception of FRANCINE)
I’ll be waiting on the COBRA to strike back in the 9th inning (if it’s a save situation)
Anyone want to bet we see Boyer at some point during the game? You know that Bobby is hell bent on seeing when Blaine’s arm will just fall right out of the socket?
By SoWeGa Fanatic
August 8, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this
I’m beginning to think this Campillo dude might know what he is doing.
By fastasballs
August 8, 2008 10:42 PM | Link to this
The Braves are looking good for a second night in a row. I’m sure the DBacks are waiting on Boyer to come in so they can catch up a bit.
It’s amazing what a little clutch hitting can do for the team. Say what you want about Infante & Prado, but both give their all out on the field. Both have a bit of pop in their bats & some clutch hits as well.
Well I never would have thought Frenchy would hit into a DP in that situation, utterly shocking to say the least.
He’s a shell of his former self at the moment. I hope for his sake his woes this season are injury related. Hayward may be the back up plan next season for right field if Frenchy doesn’t get it turned around.
By Andy K.
August 8, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this
Again, why isn’t Prado playing everyday?
By ArkyTech
August 8, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this
Prado is such a beast.
By Supes
August 8, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this
Only the Braves can get a lead off triple and fail to bring in that runner from 3rd.
Meanwhile, Prado continues to swing a big, mean ugly stick, esp. to Right Center.
By TennesseePaul
August 8, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this
Caught steeling home… Was this an intended or was it a failed bunt?
By fastasballs
August 8, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
Who would have ever guessed Cox would call a squeeze in that situation?
By Daveinzona
August 8, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
Wow — Triple. Put Prado in right field.
By One Day Knee-Jerker Alert
August 8, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this
Again, why isn’t Prado playing everyday?
Maybe those two career homeruns and the .398 career slugging percentage have something to do with it?
The Braves are already 13th out of 16 teams in the NL in homeruns hit this season. Prado replacing anyone other than Blanco would be a downgrade in that already weak department.
By Couch Tater
August 8, 2008 10:54 PM | Link to this
1981 Fernando Valenzuela (ROY) era 2.48 BA .250.
2007 Jorge Campillo era 2.58 BA .167.
Jorge needs to get in the cage.
By Pete H.
August 8, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this
Good lord, I know we have Campillo for three years or so, but we should give him a real contract. Guy deserves it. He might be the most underrated pitcher in baseball.
By N Nine
August 8, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this
I will promise you team better off if FRANCINE sent down and Anderson brought up..why is he still in minors..along with that TALL Australian dude.
By SoWeGa Fanatic
August 8, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
By Andy K.
August 8, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this
Again, why isn’t Prado playing everyday?
Poor baserunner?
By Jeff321
August 8, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this
FSN Arizona just said, “Campillo has like 12 pitches and can throw them all for strikes!”
With some run support, I think Campillo can win 15-20 with no problem next year.
By McFann ;Ô;
August 8, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this
OK, Mark, you’re off the hook.
: ) Double #30 for BMac! (And RBI #65. Chipper ran the bases very well.)
Gotta shut down. Night, all!
By SoWeGa Fanatic
August 8, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this
Pirates 1 Phillies 0 in the 12th.
By David O'Brien
August 8, 2008 11:02 PM | Link to this
Hoss looked a bit pooped after that dash from first. But the leg(s) held up. Let the pigeons loose!
By Danko
August 8, 2008 11:03 PM | Link to this
Campillo continues to look filthy. Jurjjens, Morton and the Mexican Maddux will form a nice nucleus next season. Add a Sabathia or another top arm and we’ll really have something.
DOB
Jason Isbell is hitting Athens for a mid-week show Sept 17th. Let Carroll take the Philly game that night.
By Supes
August 8, 2008 11:04 PM | Link to this
Brian McCann continues to rake against the NL West. I thought that ball had a chance to go out, that darn tall wall in CENTER, weird shaped stadium.
I think Braves nation was watching with deep concern as Chipper slid home. I guess the hamstring is just fine:)
fastballs
I think Hayword is at least one more full year of minor league ball away from coming up to the show, at least that’s what everyone says. He’s single A this year, probably will be AA next year…and I wouldn’t put it past the Braves to bring him straight up after AA to the big leagues at some point without having to go to AAA. He’s got that much talent.
Meanwhile, I think the Braves will be stuck with FRANCINE for at least 2 more seasons, which is why I sincerely hope he can turn it around at some point.
All our best wishes go out to Huddy. Let’s hope he is well and resting and able to come back in 12 months and be as good as ever.
By Supes
August 8, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this
N NINE
Unfortunately, Frank and Bobby would rather watch Jeff helplessly struggle for the rest of the season here. Go figure. Look at the numbers, no improvement since when he got sent down the first time.
It’s a shame that Josh Anderson and Brandon Jones are not with the big league team. We could use both of those guys. I for one would rather see what Josh can do for a full month of starting in the OF. He’ll bring the same level of defense, and a speed element to the team.
Casey Kotchman 3-3 tonight. As advertised, good contact hitter. I’m glad he’s an Atlanta Brave for at least 3 more seasons.
By Jeff321
August 8, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
Well, that’s 3 hits for Kotchman tonight so far.
Something tells me the complainers are going to start getting quiet on that front.
Like I told ya, the guy had 107 hits for the Angels.. (My guess is he was shocked to get traded to a fourth place team..)
By Pete H.
August 8, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
I nearly freaked when I heard on Rotoworld that Charlie was going back to AAA. Thanks, Roto…that was a stupid post.
Nice getting even with Davis. I sympathize with the cancer and felt sorta good for him when he beat us, but this is baseball. Pounding him feels good.
And while I like Prado, where exactly will he play everyday? He ain’t taking Chipper’s job, or Kelly’s. He and Infante make the nucleus of a great bench. I saw someone (DOB?) criticizing Omar, but let’s face it, he was never meant to hit cleanup. He’s a utility player who plays great defense and can hit. When he plays regularly, he has been pretty mediocre. As a supersub, he’s been great.
By TennesseePaul
August 8, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
Wow. Marteen is putting a show on.
By Deep Throat
August 8, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this
An open letter to Joe Simpson:
Dear Joe,
Hits are hits. Get off the “going the other way” obsession. An opposite field basehit counts the same as a pulled hit.
By N Nine
August 8, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this
Danko, yes Mexican Maddux is the real deal..you know our team is better than we may think. we just need some pitching and a power hitter…did someone call Klutchman a dud today?? man great pickup with the situation at hand.
gonzo=cobra campillo=mexican maddux whats next?
we are so lucky mexican maddux just FELL in our hands for nothing..and he’s ours for years!!!!!!!
By Supes
August 8, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this
At what point, do the D’Backs figure it out defensively against Prado?
Move Connor Jackson to CF, Young goes to Right Center, and keep Romero in RF.
Prado hits without any thought of going to left field at times.
Too bad JEFF FRANCINE isn’t taking notes from the dugout.
By Random
August 8, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this
I hate to tell you all this — ‘specially since it’ll lay me open to the white hot ripostes of all the doubters and haters — but me and my Mom have been referring to Gonzo as the Cobra for over three weeks now, well before Tex was traded.
What brought it up was seeing how Tex (at least as a RH batter) weaved back and forth in the batter’s box, in ocnjunction with how Gonzo was weaving back and forth on the pitcher’s mound (ever since coming back from his surgery). (Neither of us remembered him doing it last year.)
We both thought that it would be pretty neat, IF Tex were traded, to see them facing off against each other.
“The cobra and the mongoose”, we called it.
I wish to hell I’d’ve posted this back then.
By SoWeGa Fanatic
August 8, 2008 11:15 PM | Link to this
2-0 Pirates n the 12th.
By StingerSplash
August 8, 2008 11:15 PM | Link to this
Every one of the position players has at least one hit tonight … except for Francoeur. At least he drew a four-pitch walk.
By Robert S
August 8, 2008 11:16 PM | Link to this
Prado’s en fuego!! Makes you wish the guy could play right field.
Speaking of which, you know it’s bad when everyone else is teeing off of Arizona pitching in the fifth, yet poor Frenchy can’t get the bat on the ball. Ouch.
By Blaine Boyer is a big tub of goo
August 8, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this
Say what you will about Chuck James
At least he wasn’t a big tub of goo.
Good luck in your next career, Chuck.
By N Nine
August 8, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this
looks like we going to gain another game in standings…few more gains and sssssssssh as the great Huddy says “Miracles happen” sleep good Huddy..
By Random
August 8, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this
DOB: “By the way, anyone thinking about attending Skip’s funeral on Monday. I guess that church isn’t nearly big enough to handle the crowd that might turn out, so they’re suggesting that fans who can attend the Tuesday morning memorial service at the ballpark do that instead… . Just passing it along. it’s gonna be crowded Monday, and there’s not much parking at the church, which is on Peachtree near the south edge of Buckhead”
Answer: MARTA
By SoWeGa Fanatic
August 8, 2008 11:24 PM | Link to this
Phils lose 2-0 in 12 to Bucs.
By Danko
August 8, 2008 11:26 PM | Link to this
N Nine We robbed Detroit in the JJJ/Gorkys deal; got Infante and Ohman from the Cubs on the cheap, and have first base covered for the next few years. I’m a fan of Frank Wren thus far.
By Robert S
August 8, 2008 11:27 PM | Link to this
Blaine Boyer is a big tub of goo, I think Mr. Batting Practice put in an application for Home Depot. Didn’t he work there before?
SoWeGa Fanatic, scoreboard watching? Holding out the faintest of hopes? Gotta give you props for your optimism, if that’s the case.
Whoever came up with the “Mexican Maddux” moniker for Campillo, gotta give you kudos there. This guy knows what he’s doing, no doubt.
By N Nine
August 8, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this
Yes, I really like that nickname for Mike Gonzalez. Unless Gonzalez says he hates it when I ask him about it DOB
DOB, any word from the Geat White Cobra? maybe after the game?
By Pete H.
August 8, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this
Francine? An obvious teenager. Grow up.
Kotchman is a great pickup. Judging him by a few at-bats, particularly since he has hit the ball hard but right at people, is typical of this blog.
We made a good trade.
As for Jason Heyward, yes, he needs a year at AA, but I think he will be in Atlanta in ‘10 and Hanson and Hernandez too. These are high-ceiling kids who can jump to the majors. The Braves really use AAA to stockpile spare parts and maybe give a kid a few at-bats against former ml players. I doubt these kids will spend more than a few games there.
By doc
August 8, 2008 11:33 PM | Link to this
david great interview on 680.
i too was hoping for something more definitive on the mri results. he has been injured for two years now in a way. got to also wonder if there is not a vascular reason for his intermittent ineffectiveness though nerve problem is more plausible. tough case for a guy who is a stud.
By Random
August 8, 2008 11:33 PM | Link to this
DOB: “Saltywoody, that was classic. You might be on to something with your Gotay theory.”
Shi-yeah, as long as you’re effin eager to forget that Glavine vouched for him without reservation.
Keep your pitiful little stories straight, why don’t you?
Sheesh.
By N Nine
August 8, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this
Too bad JEFF FRANCINE isn’t taking notes from the dugout SUPES
Im going to buy a clipboard for him and well go back to the basics with him and we will have DOB monitor the progress.
By sri
August 8, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this
Is Bobby gonna use Boyer tonight?
By keylargo
August 8, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this
OK, Campillo, just concentrate on the win. You deserved a quality start but it didn’t happen. You can go 7 or 8 the way you’re pitching.
By N Nine
August 8, 2008 11:39 PM | Link to this
DANKO I 100% agree with you!
By Robert S
August 8, 2008 11:50 PM | Link to this
sri, I sure hope not. I think Boyer’s expiration date may be upcoming. And it really isn’t his fault. Hopefully, Campillo can get through the seventh, and maybe the eighth if he’s efficient. We’ll see.
Pete H, agree with you on Kotchman. A good contact hitter, doesn’t strike out much, as good a first baseman as anyone, and the Braves have him for three years, and cheap. Can’t go wrong there, especially when Tex could very well follow the money to Baltimore or New York after the season, and leave Anaheim high and dry.
By I was a teenage Francophile
August 8, 2008 11:51 PM | Link to this
229 and FALLING!
By steve_97060
August 8, 2008 11:52 PM | Link to this
so at one time, Frenchy actually had a litte power didn’t he, back before he became the human rally killer, the opposing pitchers best friend…. he doesn’t even have warning track power anymore, WTH happened to him?
By Pete H.
August 8, 2008 11:52 PM | Link to this
It’s a shock that our pitching is actually good, given that we have lost four of five starters. Credit to the front office for finding Campillo and giving Morton a chance and sticking with him.
By Doc Holliday
August 8, 2008 11:56 PM | Link to this
Im sure KJ is starting to think…….which is the best way to poison Prado…… 3 for 3…….313 BA.
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 12:01 AM | Link to this
if we bring in Boyer we could win by one-run and hear GOO GOO talk!
Tough way to finish mexican maddux but now we have the COBRA hi-sssing
By fastasballs
August 9, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this
Good to see the bullpen come through in the 7th. Amazingly enough Boyer wasn’t called upon. Well there’s always the 8th………..
By Steve from OH
August 9, 2008 12:14 AM | Link to this
DOB
Any word on when Manny Acosta will come off the DL?
By Pete H.
August 9, 2008 12:21 AM | Link to this
Steve, ever had a slump? Frenchie is in one of the worst ever. I am a switch hitter and if it got that bad, usually right handed, I’d just switch and eventually everything would work out. Jeff is or is not the player we saw. I think he is.
By Robert S
August 9, 2008 12:23 AM | Link to this
Bennett strikes out the side, Tavarez strikes out his man. What in the name of Sam Hill is going on here?
By Steve from OH
August 9, 2008 12:29 AM | Link to this
That was a loooong home run. Wow.
By Robert S
August 9, 2008 12:29 AM | Link to this
Welcome back Chipper!!!!
Feels like old times, you know?
By Couch Tater
August 9, 2008 12:29 AM | Link to this
Chipper’s back.
By fastasballs
August 9, 2008 12:30 AM | Link to this
Chipper crushed that ball. Seems like every time he returns from the DL he hits a homerun.
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this
I can’t recall chipper’s last HR
By Oh Brother
August 9, 2008 12:35 AM | Link to this
Im sure KJ is starting to think…….which is the best way to poison Prado…… 3 for 3…….313 BA.
Yeah….not likely.
But that logic McCann should be thinking, his batting average is lower now too.
Sample size.
By StingerSplash
August 9, 2008 12:38 AM | Link to this
Martin Pra …. wait, that was Bennett hitting that rope? Man. Pays to be the 8-hole hitter tonight. That’s 4-for-5 with four RBIs for Braves No. 8 guy tonight, be it the infielder or pitcher.
By Robert S
August 9, 2008 12:38 AM | Link to this
Bennett not only strikes out the side in the eighth, he’s also Babe Ruth at the bat? This must be some parallel universe thing going on here. Lemme make sure my water’s not spiked.
By Brad
August 9, 2008 12:41 AM | Link to this
Looks like Prado might have KJ all shook up!!!!!
By fastasballs
August 9, 2008 12:47 AM | Link to this
Did they give a distance for the Chipper’s HR?
I have to applaud the team after these past two games. They have played some good baseball the past few nights.
If they could win one of the next two games they can come back home on a high note. Facing Haren & Webb is going to be tough. This would be a great time for Cox to sit Frenchy. What’s he going to do against those two if Doug Davis made him look silly on a night when everyone in the line up was pounding him.
I thought Frenchy was starting to take some better swings, now he’s not even doing that. His head is pulling way off the ball on every swing. I know the Braves are all but out of it, but is there a reason to keep him up here right now?
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 12:48 AM | Link to this
how about Bennett in RF and Francine to AA.
By Robert S
August 9, 2008 12:48 AM | Link to this
I’m trying to remember the last time the Braves won consecutive games on the road. I’m stumped.
Good win, though.
By Pete H.
August 9, 2008 12:50 AM | Link to this
Nice win. Suck on that, Davis.
By kirknga
August 9, 2008 12:51 AM | Link to this
Is there a bigger Braves nemesis than Tony Clark?
Oh well, good win tonight.
Wasn’t it good not to see Boyer pitch tonight?
I don’t know what will happen in the next two games against Harren and Webb, but it is good to see the Braves push the D’backs back on their heels after being dominated by them in the recent past.
If we can win one of the next games, you have to say it was a good road trip I would think.
By Robert S
August 9, 2008 12:57 AM | Link to this
Just saw where the Braves won consecutive road games just last month vs. Florida and Philadelphia (I was surprised), but it appears they haven’t won three in a row on the road yet this season. And they get to face Haren tomorrow.
Not trying to be pessimistic or anything……..
By Pete H.
August 9, 2008 1:04 AM | Link to this
Kirk, I know you live in Georgia, which means a probability of not graduating the third grade, but we have beat better pitchers than these guys. It’s nice seeing the bench guys play well. And Chipper is back. This is not the team we will see next year, but they are playing well.
This negative stuff just drives me nuts.
By chris
August 9, 2008 1:04 AM | Link to this
I wonder how badly Frenchy’s eyesight is deteriorating from that beaning he had several years ago. It looks like he has trouble identifying pitches. Tony Conigliaro’s career ended that way.
By StingerSplash
August 9, 2008 1:21 AM | Link to this
And now for the “having lost complete touch with reality” fact of the night…. The Braves are 8.5 back and have won 3 of the last 4.
Oh, come on, let a guy dream for a little while before throw all the books into a big old bonfire they’ll see for miles around, warden.
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 1:26 AM | Link to this
Was Chipper’s shot a BOMB or what? (I’ll answer: yes, it was a bomb).
It was funny to see and hear the guys eating while watching when SportsCenter came on in the clubhouse, and the Braves-Dbacks highlights were first up. They were having a great time, making comments about everything, including Conor Jackson’s helmet toss after Tavarez struck him out to end the seventh with two on, and the distance of Chipper’s homer (“You’re not supposed to do that,” someone said).
They were having some fun….
Chris, there’s been just about enough of the wild speculating on Francoeur’s vision. I mean, seriously, the dude had his eyes tested at midseason in the midst of his slump, when he got the single contact for the eye that had “deteriorated” to about 20-30 or 20-40. That’s still really good vision, where a normal person wouldn’t have it corrected. The other eye was still 20-15, better than the 20-20 that’s generally known as perfect.
With the contact, the other eye was supposedly brought back to perfect.
And I gotta ask you: He was hit in the face in 2004 in A-ball.
In 2005, Francoeur hit .300 with 14 homers in 70 games after being promoted to the majors.
In 2006, he had 29 homers and 103 RBI.
In 2007, he hit .293 — the highest he ever hit in any pro league except half-season rookie ball in 2002 — with 105 RBI and won a Gold Glove.
So you’re saying that now, four years after he was hit in the face, we’re seeing the dramatic effects of deteriorating vision?
I’m no doctor, but that sounds like a bit of a reach.
And to compare him to Tony C. …
Consider that Conigliaro was immediately diagnosed with severe damage to his retina when he was hit by the pitch that broke his cheekbone. He didn’t play for a year and a half and was never the same after he did come back, despite having a couple more good seasons.
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 1:28 AM | Link to this
I’m trying to remember the last time the Braves won consecutive games on the road. I’m stumped.RobertS
Believe it or not, it wasn’t that long ago. Well, relatively speaking. It was July 23 and July 25, at Florida and Philly (day off between).
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 1:30 AM | Link to this
RobertS: And the last time they won on back-to-back days on the road, with no day off, was July 12-13 at San Diego.
By Cheyenne
August 9, 2008 1:45 AM | Link to this
and yet that can be inquisitively flawed. We see what we want to see. Serge
Thats true. Plus what i see is basically a small sample size as opposed to the stats that show the entire population. The vast majority of people only see most opposing players a few times a year, even beat writers only see one no more that what? 19 times?There is a chance that what you saw was either better or worse than the normal performance.
And there is nothing that lasts longer than a baseball player’s rep as a good defender as witness any number of gold glove selections. I have no horse in the Hudson/Johnson debate but I do have one in that biased I believe what I see and not what the stats say approach.
By skip
August 9, 2008 1:45 AM | Link to this
So nice to see Julian come through in a big spot for you guys tonight :) DOB, did you ever have a chance to ask him his thoughts on the Manny trade?
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 1:54 AM | Link to this
Braves are 9-for-17 with RISP in these first two games of this series. Yeah, NOW they start hitting with RISP….
By Jeff
August 9, 2008 1:56 AM | Link to this
Now that Chipper is back, BC can’t bench Infante considering how hot his bat is. There really is only one solution—-play Infante in left, and put Blanco in right with Kotsy in center. This would put Frenchy on the bench which is really where he belongs at this point. He has become an almost automatic out no matter where BC puts him in the batting order and Infante’s bat will more than make up for Frenchy’s arm in right. this is the right thing to do but I strongly doubt whether BC will consider it, given his unreal conservative nature and the way he and the organization treats Frenchy with kid gloves.
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 1:59 AM | Link to this
DOB glad times are good in club house..did you get a chance to talk with COBRA??
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 2:10 AM | Link to this
The race is on!
chipper 2-4 .371
Pujols 1-4 .349
Good day at the office. For those who werent sure about chipper’s march to BA title..well he means business.
By Cheyenne
August 9, 2008 2:23 AM | Link to this
Interesting stat while reading yahoo the other day: runs created. Googling runs created, there’s some pretty advance formulas, but Yahoo used a simple (R + RBI) / PA.
Anyway, for what it’s worth, KJ’s was .240 (104/437), and Prado’s is .312 (29/93). The top 10 in baseball ranged from the .369 to .338. BobbysCox
It’s not worth all that much since both runs scored and runs batted in are very line up dependent.;where you are, and who is inn front and in back of you.
By Cheyenne
August 9, 2008 2:29 AM | Link to this
lew wasnt campillo sign as a minor league free agent? i think that makes it different…maybe not.DAP
I have a question too as to his salary status. I have seen this question asked several times but have never seen a reply from DOB. It seems to interest several posters and probably only Wren could say for sure. I wish DOB would address it and let us know.
I think that I remember last season when there was some debate that Blano was out of options and it turned out that he still had all of them left.
By gotigers72
August 9, 2008 2:32 AM | Link to this
I remember seeing the original “Cobra”, i.e. Dave Parker when he played with the Cincinnati Reds. Got there early and he and some other outfielders were in deep right field showing off their arms, throwing to different bases. He was really amazing. Not only a strong arm, but also accurate. They were throwing at a barrel or something behind second base, and he was hitting it with regularity. From up against the wall in right. He was a very good player in his day, mostly with the Pirates.
Niekro pitched that day and it was a very hot and humid day. His knuckleball was dancing like a butterfly. I think he struck out Parker 4 times. Parker was doing like the guys in the cartoons do, swinging twice, winding up, etc. He was trying to hit it out every time. To a hitter, it looks so tempting, coming in so slow, looking like a beach ball. But that day “Knucksie” carved up the “Cobra”. “Carved up” is a borrowed expression from Mr. Bobby Cox for when a pitcher makes hitters look foolish.
By Pete H.
August 9, 2008 3:04 AM | Link to this
N Nine
I know your boyfriend keeps calling you his little girl, but transferring your bad feelings to Frenchy just makes you more of a little bend-over-the-bed girlyman.
By Cheyenne
August 9, 2008 3:24 AM | Link to this
Now Phil Stockman (pre-DL) is getting ‘Devined’ by Cox.DeepThroat
Geeze will some of y’all let up on the Stockman crap? The guy has had a leg problem much of the year including to some extent while up here and was DLed as soon as he left.. The guy pitched a total of 36 innings in 2007 and 43 innings in 2006, he has 30 in the minors this year. He has a history of injuries and low pitching totals for 3 or four years now. Give it a rest.
By Bobby's Cox
August 9, 2008 3:54 AM | Link to this
Cheyenne
I disagree. When you hit for extra bases like Prado has shown all year long, you’ll come around to score more often, and runners on first will also score more easily.
I agree it has to do with other players around you, especially when using the same stat for similar players on the same team. The same players are hitting in front and in back of Prado as when KJ plays.
That stat, (R +RBI) / PA, isn’t that bad a stat. Maybe it helps explain why the braves score like 8 runs a game when Prado starts as opposed to 4 runs a game when he doesn’t.
Anyway, the more games he plays, it looks like the more fans he gets.
By Bobby's Cox
August 9, 2008 4:16 AM | Link to this
N Nine
How about Hampton in RF and Francine to A?
By Bobby's Cox
August 9, 2008 4:59 AM | Link to this
“He’s some kind of hitter,” Cox said of Prado. “He really is. He’s hit .300 everywhere he’s ever been.”
As the Braves look toward next year, Prado is giving them reason to evaluate whether Kelly Johnson is the answer at second base. Prado has produced multi-hit games in each of the three starts he’s made this month.
Despite the fact that he leads all National League left-handed hitters with a .350 batting average against left-handed pitchers, Johnson has been sitting in favor of the right-handed Prado when the opposing starting pitcher is left-handed.
“[Prado’s] a good player,” said Jones, who has always been one of Prado’s biggest supporters. “He knows what his strengths and weaknesses are. His strengths are that he can hit the ball in the gaps and put up good at-bats.”
That’s what I’ve been trying to tell y’all all year.
If you don’t want to hear it from me, then hear it from Chipper. The dude is slugging .500 now. .885 OPS. No power? Maybe no HR power, but he’s a slugger.
By Deep Throat
August 9, 2008 5:15 AM | Link to this
Bobby’s Cox…still?
Why do you hate Kelly Johnson so much? Did he kick your dog?
Prado is slugging .500? Spare us. That’s in 84 at-bats this season and you know it. The fact that his batting average shot up 22 points and his slugging percentage by 62 points in one, 3 for 4, game tells you how small it is. He could easily have an two bad games and have a batting average around .250. What will you say that? Small sample size?
Prado’s career slugging percent is under .400. Some “slugger”.
By Bill
August 9, 2008 5:39 AM | Link to this
Cheyenne- I don’t think it matters how many options Blanco has? He’s been in Braves system 6yrs. and I believe he would have become a free agent if they had sent him down. Maybe DOB can let us know about a player that has been in the system 6yrs.
By Bobby's Cox
August 9, 2008 5:50 AM | Link to this
Deep Throat
It was a big night. Let me bask in the glory.
And no, KJ didn’t kick my dog. I really like KJ. Believe me. The kid learned a new position, he’s got a nice bat, and seems like a really cool dude. I just firmly believe he’s not the better player you all believe he is. I think they’re equal players, but Prado’s got the more consistent bat. That’s all.
BTW, KJ’s 0-10 in his last 10 AB now. The inconsistency continues, even with the new stance. The ONLY thing that bothers me about KJ is the inconsistency. That’s all. Well, maybe the D sometimes too.
And please spare me the career slg numbers. You heard Cox, the kid has hit .300 at every level he’s played. You heard Chipper, the kid hits the gaps & puts in solid AB’s. Should the Royals discount Aviles .341/.364/.535/.899 because of his past performance? These kids are young and still developing.
I really don’t see how he’s a downgrade from KJ, and if the braves are really starting to evaluate 2nd base for next year now like Bowman says, i’m all for it given Wren’s track record this year of pulling JJ, Infante, Kotchman, and Anderson. That’s incredible.
By Bobby's Cox
August 9, 2008 5:56 AM | Link to this
Deep throat,
forgot to mention, he’d have to go 0-for his next 20 to be hitting .250.
Not likely, esp for a guy that goes with the pitch.
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 6:15 AM | Link to this
Saw a terrific movie tonight: “Redbelt,” about a martials arts instructor who’s anti-competition and all about the purity of the discipline, etc. Written and directed by David Mamet, and it’s up there with some of his best work. Great story, superb cast (Chiwetel Ejiofor, Tim Allen, Joe Mantegna, gorgeous Alice Braga.)
BILL: Blanco is not out of minor-league options….
And regarding this question about Campillo:
I have a question too as to his salary status. I have seen this question asked several times but have never seen a reply from DOB. It seems to interest several posters and probably only Wren could say for sure. I wish DOB would address it and let us know.Cheyenne
OK, once more, since my apparent once-more above wasn’t clear: Campillo had less than one year of major league service before this season. He will not be eligible for arbitration until after the 2010 season.
The Braves will not have to give him a big raise until then. He is NOT a free agent after this season. He is under their control, assuming they want to keep him (and they do).
If you’d like to complicate it more than it is, feel free. But that’s the way it is. He’s not a free agent, and they really have no reason to feel compelled to sign him to a multi-year deal anytime soon unless they want to.
OK, now it’s answered, Cheyenne. NOT a free agent. NOT eligible for arbitration. NOT a worry for Braves. He’s under their control if they want him to be (and they do.).
By nolie
August 9, 2008 6:17 AM | Link to this
I disagree. When you hit for extra bases like Prado has shown all year long, you’ll come around to score more often, and runners on first will also score more easilyBC
Just a word from the peanut gallery here. I find all this Prado support kinda interesting. I had favorable things to say about him last winter and was treated like a pariah by just about everybody who responded re my posts. Don’t remember you or anybody else covering my back at that time.
Anyway about your comparisons and the use of RS/RBI etc, modern stats-men (is there really such a word?) are aware that stats like RBI and RS are not nearly as reliable as as some other ones , they are too much influenced by all the line-ups. Plus in general,percentage based stats are usually more useful in comparing players performance than cumulative ones.
Use whatever you want to, just don’t expect stats guys like Shaun or Quack or at a higher level Bill James etc to take them very seriously. If you are going to put some effort into it why not use the more useful reliable ones?
By Bobby's Cox
August 9, 2008 7:00 AM | Link to this
nolie
My friend, i guarantee you i was with you in the favorable prado talks last winter. you can research it if you want.
But, where have you been all season when I’ve given just about every other stat to support my claim and bromance over the kid, including minor league stats (early in the season), to ST stats, to avg with RISP, avg with men on base, BA, OBP, slg %, to his .995 fielding % his last year in AAA (87 games), to 8 runs per game in which he starts compared to when he doesn’t (recently), to now the ridiculous runs created stat that I even labeled for what it’s worth before posting it?
i probably didn’t blog as much as i do now, given the current economy & the affect it’s taken on my life, but i’ve liked prado ever since they brought him up in 2006, and more when he had outstanding springs in competitions for the starting gig (competitions I thought he won).. Even in 2007 I had the argument, “why even let KJ learn 2nd when he’s missed a whole year to TJ, hit .250 in 2005, and Prado seems ready”? Needless to say, i was all gung ho over KJ playing 2nd base up until mid last season.
i know these bloggers swarm you when you when opinions differ from the mass, especially when they can be construed to put down a fan-favorite in Kelly.
My rare statements then probably got lost in the jist. I also blogged under different names in my early blog days.BTW, thanks for the advice…but i’m afraid i’ve already learned the hard way like you have.
By Deep Throat
August 9, 2008 7:03 AM | Link to this
Let me bask in the glory.
Bask in the glory? Are you so desperate for Prado to start that you “bask in the glory” after a single good game? If he starts later this week and goes 0-4, will you be upset?
I just firmly believe he’s not the better player you all believe he is.
And I firmly believe Johnson has a good ceiling. A 20 homerun, .380 OBP guy. He is going is his absolute prime aged 27 season next year too. Prado, meanwhile, seems like a guy who’d top out, if he played 150 games, around a .280 average an an OBP in the lower 300s. Prado’s skills are way too batting average dependent and he has no homerun pop to speak of…on a team that already doesn’t hit enough homeruns.
BTW, KJ’s 0-10 in his last 10 AB now. The inconsistency continues, even with the new stance.
Infante coming into tonight was 2 for his past 12 and neery a word from hardly anyone.
The ONLY thing that bothers me about KJ is the inconsistency.
So Andruw Jones, a very streaky hitter, was bad in your eyes?
Also, well then I guess you long for the consistent play of Jeff Francoeur? He has been very consistent at the plate all year this year.
You heard Cox, the kid has hit .300 at every level he’s played.
Except in the majors in 2006, or 2007, or in his career.
Or in his minor league seasons in 2003, 2005, 2006 or this year in 2008.
are really starting to evaluate 2nd base for next year now
Of course they are going to say this, but yeah.
But I’m sure they are. Bowman is already readying fans for the dump and writing puff-pieces about Prado and Infante (side note: how is Infante “hard to bench” and Johnson not if Infante’s season stats mirror Johnson’s?) Kelly Johnson’s possible 2 million in 2009 is no-doubt too rich for these cheapskate’s blood. Our manager is in “Joe Simpson” mode, talking about Prado’s ‘aura’ and mystic and grittyness and probably lobbying for a KJ dump himself too. Meanwhile, they’re probably still working on that long-term Frenchy deal. Insanity.
I’d be supportive of KJ to right field next year and Francoeur to somewhere, anywhere, else. But, again, I fear the Braves plan on keeping Francoeur and dumping Johnson, which, again, is insanity.
i’m all for it given Wren’s track record this year of pulling JJ
Did Wren really do this? I’m still under the impression the Renteria trade negotiations started under John Schuerholz.
And that ends it. I’m done talking about this issue. Nothing I say will chance the Braves’ offseason decisions. This is an issue that this blog will be arguing about up until December when either Wren says “KJ is our second baseman” or Wren trades him.
By ncscoots
August 9, 2008 7:23 AM | Link to this
So, with various proposals for this player or that player to play every day, I glean from the blog that a preferred lineup of some would have four of the eight regulars as Blanco, Prado, Infante, and Kotchman.
Wow. No offense to Kotchman, but I believe the opposition can play the OF in on that bunch, LOL. That’s not even a “small ball” lineup, more like “tiny ball”. High OBP for Chipper and McCann, though, since they would be walked about every other appearance.
It’s one thing to propose that a flavor of the day get more playing time, but quite another to field a team that might actually have a chance of success.
By Bobby's Cox
August 9, 2008 7:24 AM | Link to this
Deep Throat
You can’t understand my sarcasm. If you can’t realize, “bask in the glory” is sarcasm, then please don’t have discussions with me. All I care about is W’s and L’s. This season is over, FYI, and the braves are looking forward to next year and 2010. If you haven’t noticed, my discussions have been directed towards next year, possible players to get, what pieces to fill via free agency, who to trade for. Kinda playing GM, cuz it’s fun. This discussion is no different.
I was NEVER a fan of AJ’s hitting except for 2005, NEVER. Was I an AJ fan? Yes, he was a Brave. I waited 12 years for him to “break out”, yet he never really did. After 2007, i was happy to see him leave, & gave my Dodger-fan friends grief for LA spending $36 Mil on the guy. I guess you can say my impatience with KJ is a result of AJ, but i still love the kid. The only Braves I never liked were Brad Clontz, Greg McMichael, and Chris Woodward.
It sounds like you’re frustrated with this team with your brief rant. Aren’t we all.
I’m also done with this discussion. You picking apart every damn sentence instead of reading them together like they are intended is getting highly annoying and frustrating in itself. Kinda makes me think I have points that you don’t want to accept as valid.
Peace bro. I like you. Your a braves fan. No hard feelings.
By NCBravesFan
August 9, 2008 7:28 AM | Link to this
OK, so it’s a small sample size, and the two wins in AZ help … but would you believe that the Braves have played exactly .500 ball since the Tex trade, and haven’t lost any ground in the division standings? Also, their run differential in that time is +5.
No Tex, no Chipper, no Huddy … and the Braves have played better than their overall season record. Doesn’t feel that way though, does it?
Not saying that they’re going to get back in this thing - but it’s not likely that the wheels are going to come off either.
By Bobby's Cox
August 9, 2008 7:37 AM | Link to this
Wow. No offense to Kotchman, but I believe the opposition can play the OF in on that bunch scoots
well if the outfield keeps playing in, then prado will keep hitting doubles & triples over their heads.
what’s wrong with stringing together hits like last night and in Hampton’s start in Frisco? That has the makings for a more potent lineup and a comeback team than waiting for the long ball that never comes.
Wear down the pitcher & make him work, & the long ball will come. Simple.
Chipper, Kotchman, BMac, & either Frenchy or a replacement for him, and that’s a lot of power already. Might as well have guys that hit their way on consistently hit between them. When the powers not there, runs will still score.
By Run Heap Run
August 9, 2008 7:48 AM | Link to this
I went to bed in the 8th, couldn’t hold my eyes open a minute longer but nice game for everyone. Well, almost everyone.
While claiming a second straight victory in this four-game series against the National League West leaders, the Braves used a 14-hit attack that included at least one hit from each of their starting position players, except for Jeff Francoeur.
By TheCutMan
August 9, 2008 8:26 AM | Link to this
From the D-backs announcers in last night’s game when talking about the Braves’ injuries to the pitching staff this season:
“In the old days it was, ‘Spahn and Sain, then pray for rain’. In 2008, for the Braves, it’s ‘Campillo and Jurrgens, then call the surgeons.’
By TNJeff
August 9, 2008 8:37 AM | Link to this
DOB
Can you explain why the Braves don’t sign Campillo to a long term contract now before he slips out of their hands?
In Memory of Skip (ala Infield Fly Rule)
By Jeff321
August 9, 2008 8:38 AM | Link to this
Frenchy’s arm didn’t look very good last night.. But, at least he didn’t throw it 15 feet over McCann’s head this time. In other words, players will run on Frenchy any time they please.
Can we get a breakdown of assists vs. chances for THIS year?
By Savannah Guy
August 9, 2008 8:47 AM | Link to this
Gonzo is now becoming Cobra? Say it ain’t so.
Hold on a minute. I’d like to throw in on this nickname subject and just say, before we get all giddy and start setting it in stone, let’s take a pause here.
That nickname just doesn’t sound right… not for anybody, much less Gonzo. It’s way too contrived. Sounds like a Sly Stallone character in a bad movie. Is that redundant? No, the first Rocky was a good movie. Lord’s of Flatbush was pretty good too but that wasn’t a Stallone vehicle. I digress.
Baseball players shouldn’t have to be named after dangerous animals to be feared. Hammer worked just fine for Hank. The Bambino or Big D for Don or the Big Unit or Mad Dog or Crime Dog or Big Cat or, well, you get the idea.
The best nicknames aren’t necessarily scary. How about ‘Chipper’? Now there’s a name that strikes fear in pitchers, yet out of the context of baseball, not at all ominous. Chipper made his name feared. It’s the capability, not the nickname.
A nickname is merely an empty vessel that we pour meaning into with our actions and capabilities.
Cobra is too perfect a name. Maybe that’s the problem. It’s deadly but it sounds too good… too purposefully scary… so it winds up having the opposite effect. It’s kinda like a fisherman naming his boat ‘The Reel Master’. The dude with the boat named ‘Flotsam’ always out fishes him and has more fun doing it. Reel Master becomes the joke. Sometimes a self-deprecating name is best and the recipients don’t seem to take themselves quite so seriously.
Cobra sounds fine for an inanimate object, like a radar detector. Or a car. Maybe it’s a good name for a potent cocktail but certainly not a baseball player. Don’t want to poop on the newly touted nickname and it’s a nice sentiment and all, but Cobra just won’t do. It’s a better idea than a name.
Props to our own Salty, who uttered it first on another Braves blog way back in mid-June-ish. Again, a good original idea around Gonzo’s intense rocking and his mesmerizing, hypnotic effect on hitters, but Cobra ‘sounds’ better typed on a blog or a printed on a B-movie poster than it ever would coming out of a broadcasters mouth.
I can hear it now, broadcasters stumbling all over themselves to force the name, “Uh, and here comes Cobra, uh, slithering out of the bullpen… like a, um, snake… ready to, uh rock back and forth and, uh, spit in the eye of the batter.” See? It’s just too awkward.
Bear with me for another minute and let’s break this down. It’s important. Career nicknames are on the line here (right). Gonzo pitches with closer-like stuff. He’s named Gonzales, hence Gonzo. He rocks like, uh, a snake? Do cobras rock? No, they don’t. They coil and slither and spit but they don’t really rock. Well, some denizens might say that a Whitesnake rocks, but that’s, uh, debatable. Oh, they rock all right, but not all rock is good rock. There I go again… digressing.
Sorry. Anyhoo, Elephants rock back and forth. So do Orangutans, chimps, penguins, parakeets and those loud, boisterous creatures that stumble around the streets of Buckhead after midnight but none of those seem like good, descriptive nicknames for a fearsome setup guy or a closer.
No, Gonzales needs a more fitting nickname that suits his rocking style and evokes fear in opposing hitters, mesmerizes coaches and agents, aggravates the hell out of Mets fans and intrigues NY baseball writers.
Got it… how about… Rocker?
Uh, no, maybe not… ok, back to the drawing board. Gonzo ain’t the best, most original nickname, but it’ll do until another better one surfaces.
By RBG
August 9, 2008 8:58 AM | Link to this
I agree wholeheartedly about what you say about Edgar. I had a bad feeling about this going into the season. Last yr when the Braves fell out of the race in august it was because Edgar was out of the lineup with that ankle injury. . As much as I liked getting Tex I knew last yr that without Edgar in the 2 whole the Braves were playing like the Texas Rangers. This yr with Edgar gone from the 2 whole all year the Braves have played like they did last august but over the course of the entire season.
By 96,sc
August 9, 2008 9:11 AM | Link to this
IMO some lineup changes would go along way towards helping the offense be more consistent. I like Blanco in the leadoff but why can’t Kotchman bat second. He would give Blanco a lot of chances to steal and he would be great for the hit and run play. Yunel swings at a lot of first pitches.1. Blanco 2. Kotchman 3. Chipper 4. B-Mac 5. Yunel 6. Kotsay 7. Infante (can he play right field) 8. KJ
By mark
August 9, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this
The best thing about things now is when they loose big deal when then they win its like something to look for in the future..I mean Jurggens , Campello, and Morton have all shown excellence this season.The Braves will be at the top again when they build a young pitching staff from within again..But who knows maybe Hamptin will do well rest of season , then want to stay with Braves next season and you have a older experienced guy to lead the young arms..seems to me Smoltz is finished and I think Glavine will retire..but maybe they both will try to make team next season to fill in and have their good bys its going to be interesting to see how Braves handle the hosptital braves .I think they will go after a high quality starter no matter what.My lord as far as power what happened to Frenchy!!!!Its just a huge mess with him..you feel sorry for him when he steps in at the plate.
By song
August 9, 2008 9:14 AM | Link to this
A Brave finally made the Top Gun list. Jeff Bennett threw 96.2 mph last night. We need speed.
By Kentavo
August 9, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this
I said several weeks ago, while the Braves couldn’t drop a run in a bucket, that they were missing Edgar more than anything. I’m not saying that the trade wasn’t a good one - I think we got a keeper in Jair - yet Edgar’s steady approach in the two-hole is sorely missed. And he drove in runs, was clutch, and had pop. Nobody has replaced that, or picked up the slack, certainly not the might Tex.
Oh yeah, and what the heck is up with Diaz? Is he coming back this year?
I think his .300 plus average, as unorthodox as his hitting may be, is also missed.
I think Booby’s gonna have to go with some mix-n-match lineups to get some offense going like he did last night with Infante in left and Prado at 2b.
Will have the cajones to bench Frenchy and give us an outfield of Blanco, Kotsay, and Infante? I sure hope so, but won’t hold my breath.
By brent a.
August 9, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this
A couple of things
1) Just watched the Olympics opening ceremony this AM - and they were pretty awesome. My personal view is that George Bush became President, largely so he could attend events like these.
2) Other than Francoeur, I’ve noticed over the last week, or so, that the Braves seemed to have improved their approach at the plate, a little bit. Even in the game against Sabathia, it seemed as if they weren’t trying to do too much.
Now, with McCann and Chipper back, things seem to be improving a bit.
It’s interesting.
Lastly, this Prado guy is pretty good. It’s strange, though. Kelly actually hits left handers pretty well; but, Prado seems to get most of his time against lefties. Creates an odd situation.
Makes me wonder if Prado can hit righties, as well?
By Lew
August 9, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this
DOB-A minor comment on Frenchy’s vision.
As you know, I’ve had more experience than most with vision deficiecies (as opposed to Visionary Deficiencies-do all right there, heh, heh). On most days I test out to 20-10 in my good eye (that’s what keeps the art a practical matter) and 20-220 (corrected) in the eye that ain’t so good.
Now while you’re exactly correct that most people with a 20-40 eye might possibly not have any corrective action (and in most cases it WOULD be correctable), even with a contact, it would require some possibly major adjustment on Frechy’s part.
Realizing that fractions of an inch can make a tremendous difference when contact occurs, this adjustment COULD account for some of Frenchy’s difficulties this season, as he seems to be just missing pitches he used to drive. Not saying this is the case, but compensation may take more effort than some of the Denizens are aware of. Francoeur sure as hell is not complaining or trying to make in issue of it-that much is certain.
Now this is not to say it’s an insurmountable situation, or that it is Indeed, Frenchy’s problem, but I do believe it to be a contributing factor, whether or not anyone is willing to admit it-and I’m not saying someone on the Braves or Frenchy is trying to bamboozle (what a word) anyone. However, for a player to drop from what one might assume is 20-10 to 20-40 is definitely a big drop off.
By McFann ;Ô;
August 9, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this
Dan Haren’s starting for the D-Backs tonight. You know who he is?
He’s the guy that gave up McCann’s first Big League hit (date: June 10, BMac’s ML debut).
McCann knocked in his first RBI with that hit. Haren also intentionally walked Brian.
By nolie
August 9, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this
But, where have you been all season when I’ve given just about every other stat to support my claim and bromance over the kid, including minor league stats (early in the season), to ST stats, to avg with RISP, avg with men on base, BA, OBP, slg %, to his .995 fielding % his last year in AAA (87 games), to 8 runs per game in which he starts compared to when he doesn’t (recently), to now the ridiculous runs created stat that I even labeled for what it’s worth before posting it?B’sC
I guess I haven’t chipped in cause I am of mixed mind. As much as I like Prado and think he would do pretty well fulltime, I do think that Kelly has a bit more upside offensively if he can get back on track. He has definitely taken a step back this year as has Esco, but I am willing to give them both another year as the regular starters to see if they can bounce back.
I am happy to have both Marteen and Infante on the bench available as fillins and security. I also think there’s a good chance that one of them will be traded this winter and right now Kelly has a good bit more trade value.
By Savannah Guy
August 9, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this
Lew, it could be the eyes, but it may also be a subconscious fear factor with French. Getting hit in the face a few times can do that. Like flinching while shooting a 12-gauge shotgun.
Now, back to this nicknaming thing. Mike Gonzales needs his own unique, branded nickname that fits his style. Gonzo is a cool moniker, but Luis already has that and he’s earned it.
The naming parameters should take into consideration something unique to the player’s name, his meter-like rocking motion, his speed of pitch, his personality or demeanor. Mike also throws hard.
‘G-Rock’ works. ‘G-Force’ also comes to mind. Maybe we hark, hark, harken back to the Happy Days and call him ‘The Gonz’. Or because of his steady, leggy windup, he could be ‘Legs’ Gonzales. Or ‘Tic-Toc’. Or something more musical, like the pyramid shaped click timekeeper, we could call him ‘The Metronome’. Nah, that would never do. Sounds too much like a NY Mutt player. Maybe the ‘Meter-Man’.
Perhaps his motion is similar to another sport, where the rocking motion acts like a coil and a balancing technique to build both strength and control… like ‘Shot Put’ Gonzales.
So far I like ‘G-Rock’. Could be cool.
So many nicknames to consider other than Cobra or Gonzo. Maybe the blog should chime in and give Mike his new nickname. If a name was coined here it would be good for the blog and good for Mike. Lew might even offer up a Wurlitzer… when he takes that black leather pirate eye patch off and starts slingin’ that brush around again.
By chris
August 9, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this
DOB: It’s true that’s it’s just speculation about Francouer’s vision. Interesting to know that his vision tests indicate that his eye is working fine.
As far as Tony C, his best year came in 1970. He was beaned in ‘67 (so much for never being the same). In ‘71, he started having major problems seeing and he was out of the game by ‘72. Frenchy was beaned four years ago.
It sure looks like he has a fundamental problem. Maybe it’s his small brain. Anyway, his stock has dropped to the point that I can’t see exchanging him for a significant player in a trade. Might as well wait and see if he can turn it around. I’m not optimistic.
By Notre Don't
August 9, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this
Other Brave nicknmes I think would be great to adopt:
1.)Jeff Francouer - Francan’t 2.)Many Acosta - The Frightened Gotee 3.)Blaine Boyer - Chris Restima Jr OR The Worst Pitcher Ever OR Gas Can 4.)Corky Miller - Whiffy McSwing or Future Starbucks Barista 5.)Mike Hampton - Mr. Boo Boo 6.)Rafael Soriano - Senior Boo Boo
Did I mention that Blaine Boyer should never be a major league pitcher … unless he joins the Mets. He make Jorge Sosa look like Eckersley.
By dorothy davis
August 9, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this
First and most important: Get Frenchy an eye exam! He is starting to go back on balls and then realizing he has to come in… Whats up with that? And it may help him at the plate, as he is not seeing the ball, but gets lucky contact sometime. As for trading Renteria, it was a good trade and Escobar is rapidly becoming the BEST shortstop in the game.
By Jeff321
August 9, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this
I like Blanco in the leadoff but why can’t Kotchman bat second. He would give Blanco a lot of chances to steal and he would be great for the hit and run play.
Excellent idea! Only problem is, our manager doesn’t use the hit ‘n run much and likes to wallow in the SOS.
By McFann ;Ô;
August 9, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this
Pooey…McCann struck out swinging last night…
Savanna Guy we could call him ‘The Metronome’.
Ixnay! Those things are evil, I tell you! Pure evil…
By McFann ;Ô;
August 9, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this
SG Sounds too much like a NY Mutt player.
Another reason not to call him that.
By Cobra Coda
August 9, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this
It’s Cobra. Get over it.
By RC35
August 9, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this
How does all that movement not count as a balk?
By chris
August 9, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this
Dorothy: DOB said Frenchy had an eye exam and his eyes are working fine.
By Savannah Guy
August 9, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this
McFann, we agree… no Metro nuthin’ ‘round here.
Cobra Coda, your comment shows great brevity but is very short on wit.
Cobra might work for the Arizona Snakes guys… not for Atlanta Braves players.
Regardless of names and such, winning two against Arizona is a damn fine sight to see. The boys have done good lately. Whether as contenders or spoilers, it’s a good sign to beat good teams like that.
By McFann ;Ô;
August 9, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this
Savanna Guy—
Good. Like I said, evil…
By 96,sc
August 9, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this
Jeff321 Glad someone responded. I was beginning to think people were not reading things posted by not-so-regular bloggers
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this
Lew, it was never 20-10. In fact, I think Frenchy was 20-20 before, not 20-15. But I’ll ask him today, to be sure. It was Chipper who was 20-15 — still, at his age — which we found out after he got hit in the face in Anaheim and had his eyes checked that night to be sure he hadn’t sustained damage.
In Frenchy’s case, it might be a case of going from 20-20 to 20-30, rather than the 20-10 to 20-40 possibility you described.
I do know — being serious here — that more time has been spent discussing it here on this blog than I’ve read or heard anywhere else, including in off-the-record discussions in the clubhouse and with team officials and teammates. I haven’t heard anyone, not one, who has watched Francoeur since he got here suggest that vision is his primary problem, or even that it could be a big contributor to the problem.
I’m not saying it’s not or might not be, just telling you, in all honesty, that the only folks I’ve heard suggest that are right here, on the blog. Most I’ve talked to say he’s got to make adjustments so pitchers can’t exploit the holes in his swing, got to be more selective, has to stop trying to pull everything and has to use the opposite field more, and that he possibly put on too much weight in offseason.
The vision thing, I just don’t hear elsewhere….
Chris, fully aware of Tony C’s history after the injury. He was comeback player of the year … after missing 1-1/2 years.
But after a couple of outstanding seasons, he was done.
And as I said, he sustained what was diagnosed as major retinal damage when beaned. Hence, missing 1-1/2 years before his comeback (which didn’t last too long).
Francoeur was NOT diagnosed with eye damage after he was hit. And four years later, I guess “deterioration” is a relative thing, but going to 20-30 or 20-40 in one eye doesn’t seem at all comparable to Conigliaro.
By the way, if it had to be in one eye or the other, I’d think having it in the right eye on a right-handed batter, which is what Francoeur had, is better than the left. Don’t know if it matters a lot, but seems like it’d be preferable (turn your head as if batting and you’ll see what I mean).
He was hit in right side of face because he had squared to bunt.
By TennesseePaul
August 9, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this
Deep Throat: Our manager is in “Joe Simpson” mode, talking about Prado’s ‘aura’ and mystic and grittyness and probably lobbying for a KJ dump himself too. Meanwhile, they’re probably still working on that long-term Frenchy deal. Insanity
Don’t you mean: “Probably Insanity?”
Bobby’s: I was NEVER a fan of AJ’s hitting except for 2005, NEVER. Was I an AJ fan?
Never, except 2005. The year AJ hit .207 with a .386 slugging with RISP. I’ve given just about every other stat to support my claim and bromance over [Prado], including … avg with RISP Sounds more like you just like Prado and you’ll toss up any random figure that might defend the position. It’d be similar to being a KJ booster, basking in the glory of his multi hit games, touting his over all averages when he has a less impressive game…
and the beat goes on (or is that, the heat is on?).
SG: Cobra might work for the Arizona Snakes guys… not for Atlanta Braves players.
Yeah well, that’s just, ya know, like, your opinion, man.
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this
DOB
Can you explain why the Braves don’t sign Campillo to a long term contract now before he slips out of their hands?TNJeff
There’s absolutely no reason they can’t sign him to a long-term contract now. Who told you there was? But there’s a reason it doesn’t happen until player gets closer to free agency, or at least until he’s closer to arb eligibility.
The reason that teams don’t generally sign players, and especially pitchers, with only 1-1/2 years of service time to long-term contracts is because they’d like to wait to make sure the pitcher doesn’t get hurt in the next few years, since the team is the one with the leverage until player approaches free agency, then it’s the other way around for rest of player’s career.
Let me ask you: If the Braves are going to pay Campillo only $500,000 or so next season, and well under $1 mill in 2010, before he’s even eligible for arbitration the first time in 2011, why would they feel compelled to sign a 30-year-old pitcher to a multi-year deal now? What’s the risk of waiting another year to see how he does in 2009?
Seriously, I’m missing your reasoning on why you’d not wait until at least after next year to think about signing him to a multi-year deal. Please explain.
And keep in mind, when you say “slips out of their hands,” you do realize that, long as they want to keep him on their roster, he couldn’t leave as a free agent until after the 2013 season, when he’s 35?
Now, would they want to buy out a couple years of his arbitration if he pitches like this again next year and the year after? Absolutely. But this isn’t a position player. Or even a 24-year-old pitcher. There’s a pretty good chance that a 30-year-old pitcher with as many innings as he’s got on him (eight years in Mexican League) will break down at some point before free agency. Just the cold, hard facts.
So why would you see that as a priority right now, signing him to a multi-year deal after his first full season in the majors? He’s not “slipping from their hands” for quite some time, regardless of what they do.
By TexasBrave
August 9, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this
DOB do you have any thoughts about whether or not Bobby might try and keep Infante in the line up tonight? He has had the hot hand as of late and we need all the hot bats we can get against Haren.
Since Haren is a righty I see Kotsay and KJ back in the line up. Any possibility Bobby give Frenchy a night off?
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this
TheCutMan, the D-backs announcers didn’t claim to have thought up “Campillo and Jurrjens and call for the surgeons,” did they? I hope not. We first mentioned it here a few weeks back, after hearing a Braves employee say she’d seen it online somewhere.
In other words, that great tag has been bandied about for quite a while now. So hopefully Gracey and his partner didn’t claim to have come up with it.
By TennesseePaul
August 9, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this
I’d think having it in the right eye on a right-handed batter
I get what you’re saying about Francoeur. Up until this point. We have 2 eyes for depth perception. If it is actually the case that his eye is the issue, his right eye, as a right handed batter, would be the eye that most affords him the depth perception in his stance. Generally speaking it wouldn’t be good in either eye anyway, but I think the one further back would need the better vision for depth perception which would help in reading the objects velocity and trajectory.
Having said that, it’d have to be pretty bad in order to mess him up seriously. And, wasn’t the initial eye test done because of his day/night issues and his fielding? Not so much solely his batting? I could be “misremembering” on that.
If I had to guess about his horrid season then I’d have it down on this path: he slumped early, struggled to break through, built some bad habits at the plate, and hasn’t been able to break them. The eye thing I would think would be lower on the totem pole. There have been quite a few good hitters, have they all had super vision? I wouldn’t think so. I would agree with you in the sense that it probably isn’t the biggest factor in his current season of futility and from what you wrote, it would seem the team is of the same opinion (perhaps the eye test and anything else they do is merely to assist psychologically more than physically). I’d imagine the ankle would play more of a role than the eye and even that I think would be limited.
By BravesFanChris23
August 9, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this
This has nothing to do with Braves, but I just found out Bernie Mac has died at age 50.
As far as Braves go, good for them. Two solid wins in a row. Hopefully a nice streak happens and they can get back to .500 and maybe over it.
By TheCutMan
August 9, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this
Mr.O’Brien,
re: the D-Backs announcers on Campillo and Jurrgens. I can’t say for certain, as I tuned in just in time to hear them state the slogan, then go about other business.
They might very well have credited others for having made it before them but I can’t say for sure. It IS appropriate in the overall sense for this 2008 season, regardless of who first coined the statement.
By TennesseePaul
August 9, 2008 1:42 PM | Link to this
Wow Bernie Mac is dead. Crazy. Didn’t see that one coming.
By song
August 9, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this
Frenchy opens his hips too soon. Simple as that.
He can me to fix it.
By Supes
August 9, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this
DOB
Given Omar Infante’s recent hot streat at the plate…any chance we see an outfield of Infante, Kotsay and Blanco and have Jeff sit for a game or two down the road?
The numbers have been about the same with Jeff, and it seems logical that Bobby Cox should go with the hot hand right now, which is Omar Infante.
With Prado hitting Lefties so well, any thought of a full time platoon for the rest of the season at 2B with Kelly Johnson?
Bobby Cox was so in love with the platoon idea and LF, how about 2B where it actually mertis some serious consideration at the moment?
Oh, and Pete H, if you’d been around this blog for a while you’d know that 1. I didn’t start the FRANCINE nickname, 2. I’m not a teenager and 3. The nickname isn’t going away until the “true Jeff” stands up and shows up for the Atlanta Braves. Just like everyone seemed to deem him “the Natural” when things were going great, he earned that nickname then…now he’s earned “Francine” in 2008. It’s a blog, so relax, have some fun. In the words of the Jocker…”WHY SO SERIOUS?” :SMIRK:
By Savannah Guy
August 9, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this
Yeah well, that’s just, ya know, like, your opinion, man.
TennesseePaul, yepper… you’re right. You got me. That was, uh, what’cha call an opinion. Having an opinion is not exactly a blog first. Do you, like, by chance, um, well, happen to live in, you know, like, Tennessee Valley?
By Mr. Fly (sleuth reporter)
August 9, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this
I always liked Fergie Jenkins nickname.
By RedEyedAndBlueforSkipAndFamily
August 9, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this
DOB
Just want to say ‘thanks’ for the info. on contract and Campillo.
Also liked that the blog pointed out the loss of production from the 2nd place hitter this year. While the Renteria trade has worked out very well for the Braves, we have really missed the production that Renteria provided the last couple of seasons. Arguably he was our MVP last year, and the inability of the Braves (the players, not necessarily the organization) to fill that offensive void has really hurt us.
By etownbrave
August 9, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
DOB Any chance that TBS or any other network will cover the service on Tuesday and/or do some sort of tribute for Skip? Can’t be there but would still love to hear/see it. Hope the WGN feed shows the pregame and between innings stuff for Skip since I can’t get PTV. Thanks for the radio info for Monday’s service.
By Jeff321
August 9, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this
Speaking of Infante.. Cox had a little to say:
http://tinyurl.com/5792wf
By bravos2249
August 9, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this
Supes
lol I love that movie.
Some dude is messing on the braves mlb message board under that name…lol
I don’t think I’ll be posting on that board…too weird.
By TexasBrave
August 9, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this
Fly where have you been or have I just missed your reports?
By Saltywoody
August 9, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this
I’m a big fan of the “Mexican Maddux” monicker. That and the Cobra are priceless.
Here’s a riddle to that end:
What do you call six-foot-four Manny Acosta, who likes to enter into games in the middle innings and p** them away after solid efforts from our starters?
Wait for it…
Wait for it…
Wait for it…
LONG RELIEF!
(Wah-wah…queue the crickets).
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this
With the outbreak of war between Russia and Georgia (blame Sonny Perdue … wink) and the admission of an extramarital affair by John Edwards, and disasters everywhere, both natural and otherwise, perhaps it’s time we get serious.
With that in mind, happy birthday to Kurtis Blow! He’s 49 today.
From his seminal hit “The Breaks”:
If your woman steps out with another man
(That’s the breaks that’s the breaks)
And she runs off with him to Japan
And the IRS says they want to chat
And you can’t explain why you claimed your cat
And Ma Bell sends you a whopping bill
With eighteen phone calls to Brazil
And you borrowed money from the mob
And yesterday you lost your job
Well, these are the breaks
Break it up, break it up, break it up
Well said, Mr. Blow. Well said.
By Bobby's Cox
August 9, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this
10Paul
I remember AJ as having many “clutch” hits and HR in 2005. For much of this season, Tampa Bay has been one of the worst “clutch” teams by means of stats (late & close stats, avg with RISP, etc..). However, they lead MLB in last AB or come from behind wins with 9 (excuse my memory here, but heard it the other day).
So, in essence, you can take those stats with a grain of salt too.
When I say bask in the glory you got to be kidding me if you think I’m giving any kind of precedence on 1 game. I say it merely to rub salt on your wounds for my belief the kid can play everyday and play successfully, against the mass belief of thinking KJ is the better man for the job. Kinda like a i told you so, but i would never do it for 1 game. I say it because it looks like chipper, bowman, and some in the braves organization are starting to think the same. That holds more precedence than 1 game. The kid’s been pretty darn consistent all year.
If you can’t see the sarcasm in bask in the glory, then i apologize, because now i’m gonna advocate that prado start over Chipper at 3rd. LOL, HAHA. That’s a joke. But some people here will disregard this sentence, look at the previous, and say bobby’s cox is and idiot
I don’t use certain stats to favor the kid. I use all of them. Fact of the matter is, I never thought Prado got a fair shake to compete for the job, not by management, not by fans. That gets hot more than anything. The kid has a good bat, always has. And don’t just take it from me, hear it from Chipper and the HOF manager.
KJ’s gonna get the start tonight as he should, and I’ll be rooting for him. The team’s playing well. I’m happy with that.
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this
Supes, TexasBrave: I certainly agree it would be logical to keep Infante in the lineup tonight, and I’d expect he’ll be in there, in LF or CF.
As for resting Francoeur, hey, the guy was hitting .215 in his last 90 games before last night, and he was still in there. So I’m not expecting any changes now.
By Steve from OH
August 9, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this
DOB:
Any word on when Acosta will be ready to come off the DL?
By Canuckbravesfan
August 9, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this
If Bobby is thinking of a platoon at 2nd base for the rest of the season, he’s doing it backwards. KJ hitting .350 vs. lefties, only .245 vs. righties. Prado at .300 vs. righties and .318 vs. lefties.
Re Infante: before spring training I blogged that I thought Infante was a significant upgrade over Woodward and was immediately pilloried by a fellow blogger who disagreed, pointing out Omar’s low career OBP (.305), which only points out that past performance stats are not always a predictor of future events. The bigger plus is Omar’s defensive play and greater versatility. He absolutely should be in RF tonight if BC really wants to keep things going in the right direction and get another win.
By BravesFanChris23
August 9, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this
DOB
How likely is the chance of Kotsay getting traded now that Chipper is back and Infante’s bat still hot? Or Will they figure something out?
By Mr. Fly (sleuth reporter)
August 9, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this
Hey, Texas Lone Star Brave, not reporting much lately. I’ve been around, hangin’ on walls and the like, doin’ research, visiting the Braves clubhouse… you know, the usual sleuth stuff.
Seems the medical units have more Braves reports than the journalists or sleuth reporters this year. My frequent flyer miles have run out with all the trips to see out of state surgeons.
Well, I had a really good report cookin’ over in Mississippi AA with Jeffy, but before I could file it he had flown the coop. Three days. Looks like he should’a stayed a bit longer. Maybe I should finish ‘cause it’s still a relevant story. May shed light.
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
TennPaul, valid point about depth perception. He got the one contact prescribed for that reason. Don’t know if it’s worked (hasn’t affected his offensive performance or anything else). His disparity in day-night splits was what caught everyone’s attention early in the season and was why he went to see the eye doc.
Like I said, I’m not a doctor, so I always try to couch opinions on such things as vision and such (mine’s terrible, I know that). I’m a lot more comfortable discussing elbow and shoulders, stuff I’ve become quite familiar with while covering baseball a long time.
By the way, I’d like to repeat my high recommendation of Redbelt. Great movie for those of you who dig David Mamet-penned films (Glengarry Glen Ross, The Spanish Prisoner, Wag the Dog, etc).
Or just those who like a good underdog-against-The-Man story.
By RedEyedAndBlueforSkipAndFamily
August 9, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this
DOB
What is the status in re: Matt Diaz and his “shut-down” status?
The prospects for this guy heading into the season were so bright. He had basically earned an everyday playing job. Now his job and even his career are in jeopardy. A tough break for a guy I and a lot of teammates and coaches really liked. I still say that Francoeur’s troubles are at least in small part attributable to the lack of a power/feared bat hitting behind him in the lineup.
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this
DOB any word on Jeff’s eye sight? Any word of campillio contract update?
By RedEyedAndBlueforSkipAndFamily
August 9, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this
How is the decision made on where to rehab a player? Would seem that Double AA Mississipp is often a chosen resort over Richmond; although, AAA franchises often have more former MLB players on their rosters. Is this a player’s choice as to where to rehab? Prob. not, but why choose AA (or even A Rome) over AAA?
By RedEyedAndBlueforSkipAndFamily
August 9, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this
As to Jeff’s eyesight and depth perception problems, I’ll leave the diagnosis to the trained opthomologists and eye specialists.
But it seems to me that if depth perception were a primary problem for him that his defense (catching fly balls, throwing out runners from far distances) would also suffer tremendously. Admittedly his defense hasn’t been as good as in past seasons, but he has at times sparkled with throws and on running catches. Like some have suggested on this blog I think that Jeff’s offensive troubles are principally fundamental (stepping in the bucket, over-aggressiveness, poor pitch selection) and less physical (ankle, vision).
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this
A new MANNY twist being reported!
George King is reporting that “a close friend” of the slugger’s told him that Manny “wants to play for the Yankees so he can get at the Red Sox.” And of course, Ramirez went to high school in the Bronx
this guy gets more attention than any other player!
By Lew
August 9, 2008 3:21 PM | Link to this
DOB-I’m certain they aren’t laying blame on the vision and I wouldn’t expect they would (OR that they would discuss it, for that matter). My only point was that (from my personal experience), there IS an adjustment factor at work and I would imagine any minute change could make a critical difference when trying to time a 95 MPH fastball with movement-that’s all. Lord knows that though I’ve had the offer to take BP against someone who throws that hard, I have yet to convince myself it would be a good or wise thing to do.
Now with Frenchy, what I truly think happened, is a combination of factors- all leading to horrendous mechanics-including any vision adjustment, and as SG said, maybe an unconcious fear of getting whapped yet again. Likely we will never know for sure. Likely he WILL make whatever adjustment may be necessary.
What you were saying about Conigliaro’s problem-the retinal damage-WOULD make a major difference. The retina (again, as I have discovered the hard way) is the most critical area to a person’s vision and I have NEVER heard that was the problem faced by Frenchy.
Anyway, no more belaboring of the issue-just looking for any reasonable explanation for the horrendous slump Jeff has endured this season. I for one, believe he WILL break out of it and surely hope he does.
By Bobby's Cox
August 9, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this
DOB
you bring up a good point about us all getting serious.
i don’t want to bring politics into a baseball blog, but the situation this country has put itself in is not pretty.
i heard jesse ventura on the radio today. The country is in serious debt. 9 trillion? i’ve heard deeper figures counting all consumer debt. But the situation is more than serious.
The devaluation of the dollar is selling out this country from within. Budweiser bought out? Freakin’ budweiser? Our banks going out of business or being bought out as well by middle eastern, Asian, and european investors. The government backing investors with tax-payer money but does absolutely nothing for the consumer? NBA players considering going to Europe? (had to throw in a sports-related issue here)
When you owe a country that has 1/5 of the world’s population trillions of bucks, that’s never a good sign, especially when you’re dependent on oil, they’re seeking more, and your currency is worthless.
This is getting ugly. God help us, and thank the heavens we have something like baseball and a little community such as DOB’s blog to take our mind off this mess.
Thanks DOB and AJC. Everyone have a nice weekend.
We’ll talk about Prado later.
By ColoradoBravesFan
August 9, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this
I just had a discussion this week with my friend about how many consecutive saves GONZO had, and how it covered the past 3 years, and even coming back from TJ surgery.
My friend stated, “wow this guy is money. They should call him G-money” So how about it “G-MONEY” for a nickname for Gonzo.
I know it has has be used somewhere before as I know i have heard it. Does it had a bad reference/link?
GO BRAVOS…
By brent a.
August 9, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this
To be fair, Jeff has actually been overshooting the catcher more this season, than I have ever seen him.
By MiamiBchBravesFan
August 9, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this
DOB,
RE: Jeff Bennett, the Chicago start you alluded to was done under unsual circumstances. It was a real last minute spot start that was compounded by the fact that (if I remember correctly) his wife was in the hospital that day. Circumstances that would unnerve any caring husband who happens to pitch in the major leagues.
Bennett had an excellent end of the season last year, and it would not be the first time that a muddling reliever who is inconsistently utilized could benefit from the consistency of being a starter (that is his lineage as a pitcher). By the by, let’s, for the sake of your argument, call a spade a spade and say Bennett is not the answer; what about Buddy Carlyle?
However, it may be a moot point as Chuck James’ demotion means that Tom Glavine’s return could be forthcoming after tonight’s start (provided he is relatively pain-free tomorrow morning). The obvious demotion would be Francisley Bueno, although I am sure we will see him again in September due to the lack of lefties in the ‘pen.
By the by, Omar Infante and Martin Prado need to play every day. Omar needs to play LF for the rest of the season, with a CF platoon of Mark Kotsay and Gregor Blanco. If Matt Diaz comes back hitting, Jeff Francoeur needs to spend some time on the bench and come in as a late-inning defensive replacement. Prado needs to take over second base and play third when Chipper Jones needs a day off. Prado is healthier, a better fielding second baseman, and, lately, a more consistent hitter than the bum-kneed Kelly Johnson (for those who do not know, Johnson has played all season with a bad knee, a remnant from last season - why it was not taken care of over the last winter is beyond my comprehension).
Regardless of the season - up to this point, Roger McDowell has done a brilliant job this season, especially with Charlie Morton, Jorge Campillo, and Jair Jurrjens.
However, I smell something cooking in the next two months. This rag-tag mob of has-beens and never-wases are going to shock the East. The wild cards in all of this are the performances of Julian Tavarez and Vladimir Nuñez (don’t forget the “ñ”, DOB, you used to live down here). They are exactly the kind of no-name retreads that can catch lightning in a bottle. (Yeah, it’s a little hot down here, and delirium can set in, but we can all dream, can’t we? A hot end-of-season Braves’ team would be a new concept we could all embrace.)
Thanks for the upcoming parting gift, Skip. Gonna miss the hell out of you.
By Jeff321
August 9, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this
I would like very much for Frenchy to “shut it down” and get the ankle surgery now. There is really no point in him stinking up the joint anymore this year.
Oh wait, I’ll bet he wants to “tough it out” in order to hopefully get a decent contract next year, eh?
While Andruw Jones and Frenchy’s struggles are similar but somewhat different. (Jeff having better numbers and AJ making more money.) At least AJ had the guts to speak candidly about it!
Jones: ‘Too late now’ to right miserable debut season in L.A.
http://tinyurl.com/5cof59
By Goodoleboy58
August 9, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this
Does anyone know the contract status of Jeremy Guthrie? I know trading with the O’s is a waste of time but I’d be interested to know when he becomes a free agent.
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this
jeff321
Dont be silly jeff! He doesn’t need imm. ankle surgery now. Plus can’t compare FRANCINE to A. Jones, (who would collapse on his ankle on every swing). I’d say go get smoltz’s plane and go back and see your buddy in mississippi.
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this
MiamiBchBravesFan: Good points, all.
By the way, Bennett looked absolutely stellar last night, best I’ve seen him look in a long, long time. Three batters, three strikeouts, and he was bringin’ it.
Not to mention the hit he also got….
Man, the Ipod shuffle mode just never ceases to bring me tremendous pleasure. I’m in the hotel gym while ago, and this lineup comes through the earphones: “Cowboys to Girls” (Hacienda Bros.), “Brass Monkey” (Beasties), “Nearly Lost You” (Screaming Trees), “Greenville to Baton Rouge” (DBTs), “Set You Free” (Black Keys), “Bring Da Ruckus” (Wu-Tang Clan), “Don’t Panic” (Coldplay; hey, they were pretty cool back then), “Make It Alright” (Jay Farrar) and “I Made the Prison Band” (Merle Haggard).
Makes it lot easier to get the old bones and muscles working when you got that kind of tuneage blowing out your earbuds.
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
Im more than glad people are starting to praise Prado. Bobby Cox even brought him up. The guy can flat out hit. He did it in minors (winning batting title). He has done it up here with a career BA avg near .300. Use prado. Use prado. Use prado.
By Lew
August 9, 2008 3:56 PM | Link to this
Jeff321-You don’t want Frenchy toughing it out and Doc Holliday doesn’t want wimps who can’t suck it up and play. No middle ground around here and damned if you do and damned if you don’t. Whatever. Neither one of you makes sense in this situation..
By The Scatman
August 9, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this
It’s not Francoeur’s eyes!!!
It’s his intestines. Too much beans.
By The Scatman
August 9, 2008 4:03 PM | Link to this
Dang. Certain “guys” have wussied up this blog again with their effete drivel.
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 4:07 PM | Link to this
Jeff321, ankle surgery? So he needs that and his vision’s gone to hell, too, huh? Wow, he’s an old 24, I guess.
By the way, he hasn’t been getting the ankle treated, so I don’t know how much that’s been a problem lately at all.
By Jeff321
August 9, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this
Dont be silly jeff! He doesn’t need imm. ankle surgery now. Plus can’t compare FRANCINE to A. Jones, (who would collapse on his ankle on every swing). I’d say go get smoltz’s plane and go back and see your buddy in mississippi.
N Nine - Getting the ankle surgery now is an “out” instead of stinking up the joint with meager results.
Have you ever thought that Frenchy would be collapsing on his ankle if it wasn’t gimpy? AHHH! The point is, they both are having terrible seasons and neither can hit worth a crap.
See, AJ already played the injury card by having his knee surgery.. which didn’t help his struggles one bit. And he like Frenchy, also came back early from the minor leagues. Now of course we’re talking about a demotion versus a rehab.. But, both of them should be in AA/AAA for the rest of this year.
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this
Got the Cardinals-Cubs game on, and had to laugh when they were lamenting the Cards’ many close losses and their mere 21-21 record in one-run games.
If the Braves had anywhere close to that winning percentage in one-run games, they’d be in first place.
By TennesseePaul
August 9, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this
SG: Do you, like, by chance, um, well, happen to live in, you know, like, Tennessee Valley?
Nope. Live out here with Jeffrey Lebowski. Look, let me explain something. I’m not Mr. Lebowski; you’re Mr. Lebowski. I’m the Dude. So that’s what you call me. That, or Duder. His Dudeness. Or El Duderino, if, you know, you’re not into the whole brevity thing.
“Don’t Panic” (Coldplay; hey, they were pretty cool back then)
LOL. That was prior to Apple showing up.
By Goodoleboy58
August 9, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this
I heard Francoeur is scared of spiders while we are at it
By I was a teenage Francophile
August 9, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this
Frenchy: HE is the one that HE has been waiting for.
By I was a teenage Francophile
August 9, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
Frenchy: Boy Interrupted.
By TexasBrave
August 9, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this
Fly with the season being what it has been, some colorful reporting from your side of the wall would be just what the doctor ordered. Just please stay out of any open wounds.
By Jeff (aka "Frenchy")
August 9, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this
Got a black magic woman
Got a black magic woman
I’ve got a black magic woman
Got me so blind I can’t see
That shes a black magic woman
She’s trying to make a Mendoza out of me
Don’t turn your back on me baby
Don’t turn your back on me baby
Yes don’t turn your back on me baby
Stop messing ‘round with your tricks
Don’t turn your back on me baby
You just might pick up my batting sticks
By Jeff321
August 9, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this
DOB - Didn’t Frenchy say something about getting the ankle taken care of in the off season? You haven’t noticed him running slower and getting to balls later in the field??
My main point is, whether the ankle is bothering him enough to stop a good season.. it sure wouldn’t hurt ending this awful one.
Now, of course I don’t know if he’ll have a harder time securing a 400K contract next year due to being on the DL coupled with his paltry stats. But, one things for sure, we could rule it out as a cause.
By TexasBrave
August 9, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this
I can’t see Bobby sitting down Kotsay tonight since he had a day off yesterday and for the most part Blanco has been a good lead-off man for us, so I see both those guys playing. I believe we are going to see Bobby have to make a tough decision tonight. He has been loyal to a fault with Frenchy and it has cost the Braves in quite a few games. Infante has the hot bat and deserves (needs) to be in the line up. So will Bobby do the right thing and give Jeff at least one game off or will he stick to his old managers book and be loyal to established players?
I will give Bobby a little credit though. I never thought he would bat Jeff eighth. So he has bent a little, but he needs to go ahead and take it a step further and set Frenchy down.
I would love to hear a plausible explanation why Bobby is leaving him in there so long. Is he afraid he is going to bruise Jeff’s ego? Well they have already done that by sending him down to Mississippi for a few days and we all saw how Jeff handled that. So perhaps Bobby is worried that Jeff will fly off the handle if he gets set down.
By SeattleBravesFan
August 9, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this
Put. That. Coffee down….
Coffee’s for closers
By SeattleBravesFan
August 9, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this
Put. That. Coffee down….
Coffee’s for closers only.
By SeattleBravesFan
August 9, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this
DOB how good is glengarry glen ross by the way. you just sparked it for me mentioning RedBelt and Mamet. i need to watch that again. just looking at these quotes on IMDB, man Mamet was having a field day with the F-bomb in that movie. What a cast, what a movie. Alec Baldwin is priceless.
By SeattleBravesFan
August 9, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0104348/quotes
glengarry quotes page on imdb…great stuff
By Deep Throat
August 9, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this
Team at-bats leader: Jeff Francoeur
Folks, that right there is at least a partial reason for the Braves’ offensive woes. You never give your worst hitter the most team at-bats.
By From Jeff Francoeur's latest "blog" (jefffrancoeur.com)
August 9, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this
That has me thinking about baseball lingo. There are so many phrases in the game that we use sitting in the dugout and I always wonder: would a fan know what we’re talking about? Let’s go through some of my favorites.
Baseball Terms
A ‘Can of Corn’: An easy fly ball that we catch in the outfield
A ‘Bronx Cheer’: When the crowd boos (Although I will say this, the crowds in Philadelphia are incredible when it comes to boo-ing a player, so they should renamed this a ‘Citizens Bank Cheer.’
‘Cheese’: A really good fastball
‘Texas Leaguer’: A bloop base hit that falls between the infielder and the outfielder
‘Uncle Charlie’: A really good curveball
Sorry to divert a little bit from the subject, but after writing the word ‘rubber game’ that got me thinking. What’s your favorite baseball term?
By bloggin virgin
August 9, 2008 5:08 PM | Link to this
DOB, what’s it going to take to sign Sabathia? How much of the 30-40 mil that the Braves have will he tie up? Do you think the Brewers can keep him?
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this
Seattle: One of the all-timers, no doubt. Great, great flick….
Jeff, yes I’ve noticed him not getting to balls as well. Just telling you, he hasn’t been getting it treated, so I don’t know that the foot/ankle is that great a problem lately. He got the cortisone shot early in the season….
By the way, last year when Braves were here, Stevie Nicks was staying in their hotel. This year? Chris Cornell and Linkin Park were staying there (the first night, at least). Linkin Park had some all-day festival thing they put together, and Cornell was the other headliner. Cornell was spotted in the lobby drinking a coffee.
OK, gotta get down to the clubhouse. Need to remember to ask Gonzalez about “Cobra” (I refuse to ask him if Tick-Tock or Meter-Man work for him) and ask Francoeur about his eyes, if I get a chance.
Oh, and ask Kotchman how he took such a bad picture that is shown on every jumbotron scoreboard every time he bats. (OK, don’t know him well enough to ask that yet.)
By TennesseePaul
August 9, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this
Watching the Angeles/Yankees game. A-Rod and Giambi went back to back just now. A-Rod blew his customary bubble at first base as he joggs (or yoggs, I’m not sure if it’s a hard or soft J) around the bases. So the question then is, who has he signed with for the gum endorsment?
By Department of Lame Excuses
August 9, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this
Jeff Francoeur has vision problems! He has an ankle problem! He’s only 24! It’s Terry Pendleton’s fault! It’s the Braves’ fault for sending him down! He is just having an off-year. It’s Bobby’s fault for not resting him more! It’s David O’Brien’s fault for hurting his feeling by posting his stats here!
It’s everyones’ fault that Jeff Francoeur is bad except Jeff Francoeur! Whaaaaaaa!
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 5:32 PM | Link to this
Lineup just posted: BLANCO’s in RIGHT FIELD.
By Possibly from Frenchy's next blog
August 9, 2008 5:33 PM | Link to this
Here are some more things that you often hear in the Braves dugout.
1) ‘Aunt Betty’: That’s a slow groundball that I hit back to the opposing pitcher for an easy out.
2) ‘Wiff’: That refers to what I seem to do a lot - swing and miss at pitches. Silly me.
3) ‘Cheesed’: That means ‘annoyed’ and describes how Terry Pendelton feels about me sometimes. Let’s use it in a sentence: Terry Pendleton is cheesed again because he spent two hours working with me yesterday and I’ve already forgotten everything he said.
4) ‘Groundhog’: That’s a pitch in the dirt. I try to murder them but they’re tough to catch.
5) ‘WTF’: That’s an abbreviation of what Bobby says every time I hit into a double play with the bases loaded. Bobby seems to swear a lot but I wouldn’t want to play for anyone else.
Well that’s all for now, keep hacking Braves fans!
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 5:38 PM | Link to this
Jeff Francoeur is due for a good game.. maybe tonight? Poor guy taking a REAL beating..including me!
Also when is Francisley Bueno going to pitch? who you say? ya this guy has taken a roster spot without pitching. Tom glavine will take that spot soon. At least he got a “taste” of the big leagues!
By Jeff321
August 9, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this
Wow, Frenchy getting a little benchy action? Sounds great to me. I mean, think of all the opportunities he’ll have to watch some real hitters display their craft.
By Lew
August 9, 2008 5:52 PM | Link to this
Jeff321-Kind of like you watching others blog?
By Sisterhood of the travelling pants
August 9, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this
Francisely Tyson is on the Braves? You got to be kidding.
Who’s next?
Diana Ross? Diahann Carroll?
By Woo Hoo !!
August 9, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this
The Braves went from one right fielder with an OPS under .700 (Frency) to another (Blanco)!
Amazing!
By Woo Hoo !!
August 9, 2008 5:56 PM | Link to this
The Braves went from one right fielder with an OPS under .700 (Frency) to another (Blanco)!
Amazing!
By 96,sc
August 9, 2008 5:58 PM | Link to this
Cobra is good but I like * G unit* better. Thanks BC for, resting, Frenchy.
By Supes
August 9, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this
Lineup just posted: BLANCO’s in RIGHT FIELD.
Yes, this is getting good. First we said good bye to waste of oxygen…aka Corky Miller. Then we said see you later to Chuck, batting practice fastball James…and now the deserving Omar Infante starts in LF and Blanco is in Right against a tough RH pitcher in Dan Haren. No FRANCINE tonight! Order the pizza and get settled in, Braves have a chance to actually win this game.
By Bobbymahlon
August 9, 2008 6:05 PM | Link to this
As bad as Escobar has been with the bat since july one he is still hitting 20 points higher than Renteria. Esco is coming around on the ball and is making most of his outs on ground balls to short and third base. What happened to that line drive swinger of last year and the first part of this year is probably the results of a few early season home runs. I see that all the comparisons of KJ and Prado are about hitting only. Nothing is ever said about the four times that KJ was not charged with errors when he either dropped the ball or could not get it out of his glove therfore not making the play. That is the way players are evaluated today solely on offense and defense counts very little, but it takes both to win ball games. I do not believe KJ will ever be a GOOD fielding second baseman, fair at the very best.
By brent a.
August 9, 2008 6:06 PM | Link to this
Nice.
By TexasBrave
August 9, 2008 6:10 PM | Link to this
Well I have finally gotten to see hell freeze over. Wow I didn’t know Bobby had it in him. Let’s all hope this pays off in a big way and Jeff sits for a couple of days. Not going to happen but we can all hope.
Excuse me while I investigate a strange oinking and flapping of wings noise out my window.
By Andy k.
August 9, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this
DOB: When the Cobra’s a-hissin’, they’ll be swingin’ an missin’!”
By TexasBrave
August 9, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this
DOB how is Jeff taking the news? Or at least how is his mood?
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 6:13 PM | Link to this
Lineup just posted: BLANCO’s in RIGHT FIELD.
Maybe Francisley can teach Francine how to pitch!
By the way, Francisley is a fellow Cuban just like Yunel. Maybe that will calm him down.
Francisley A real hidden asset
By Mr. J
August 9, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this
DOB,
Re TNJeff’s query about Campillo’s contract situation: I think TNJeff was making a joke. Notice that he references Skip and the infield fly rule at the end of the post you were responding to. The inference is that Campillo’s contract status is a question you had already answered repeatedly, and were getting a little testy about answering again.
And by golly, you are getting annoyed by it, even in jest.
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 6:29 PM | Link to this
Francoeur said he wanted to have today or tomorrow off anyway, said he was going to tell Bobby, but didn’t need to after he came in today and saw the lineup. Said he was actually glad to get the day off (hey, just telling you what he said).
He said it’s been a grind and that with all that’s happened this year, “being prideful is out the window” and he realizes now that time off is a good thing, etc. Said Kotsay told him that if he needed a day off, to go tell Bobby that he did, to not feel like he couldn’t ever ask for a day off.
By Jeff Francoeur
August 9, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this
DOB how is Jeff taking the news?
It’s not fair. I’m in a slump! I was just about to break out of it. This organization treats me like dirt. I did nothing to deserve being benched or sent down. I hate this team.
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this
Francoeur actually sounds quite upbeat, holding up well. Trying to work on his swing and stop dropping his hands, said he doesn’t know why he’s got a loop in his swing, but he does.
Also said he dumped the contact lens a while back, wasn’t doing anything for him.
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 6:36 PM | Link to this
Lineup tonight: 1. Blanco (RF), 2. Escobar, 3. Hoss, 4. Mac, 5. Kotchman, 6. Infante (LF), 7. Kotsay, 8. Kelly, 9. Jurrjens.
By TexasBrave
August 9, 2008 6:41 PM | Link to this
Whatever, he says it now that he has been taken out of the line up just to save face. I am not buying it. We all know that Jeff would have never taken himself out of the line up.
I hope that Infante tears it up today to give Bobby a reason to hold Jeff out again. Then we will see how his “Pride” holds up.
I am sorry to be so cynical, I really believe that Jeff will be able to work it out sooner or later and will be back to hitting well. However, a good player knows when to take himself out for the good of the team and when to take advice on fixing their problems. All I see in Jeff is a head case right now.
By McFann ;Ô;
August 9, 2008 6:44 PM | Link to this
Thanks for the lineup, Chief!
By ncscoots
August 9, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this
Mercy. Little did I know my early morning post would be so prophetic, LOL. C’mon, Bobby, get Prado in there with Blanco, Infante, and Kotchman. Feed the blog, baby!
Will Dan Haren be able to warm up through the laughter?
By Goodoleboy58
August 9, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this
ncscoots..
What big bopper are you clamoring for to get in the lineup? Greg Norton?
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this
Amazing stat: Sabathia leads the NL in complete games, with four. He’s been in the league, what, a month?
By Robert S
August 9, 2008 7:06 PM | Link to this
Sabathia is such a throwback to the way guys pitched in the 70’s and early 80’s - a big, durable guy who likes to finish what he starts. I’m a big fan of the complete game, and I despise the whole “specialization” of the bullpen now.
If a reporter in the 60’s had told Bob Gibson he’d thrown a “quality start” after going only six innings and giving up three runs, I’d imagine Gibson would punch the guy’s lights out……………Sabathia’s a definite throwback to that era.
By ncscoots
August 9, 2008 7:08 PM | Link to this
I do not clamor, nor do I tout, espouse, or blindly propose. I observe and comment. That’s all. My observation is tonight’s lineup, and my comment is that Dan Haren will be not the least bit discomfited by it.
The point is that these are players for whom many bloggers have wished more playing time. The wish is granted. Only, it looks like the getaway day lineup after a two-week trip. The Bomb Squad, as it were. And nothing wrong with that, except that some here want to see it 6 days a week.
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 7:14 PM | Link to this
Lew, that was a very funny line. Fine jab.
By 18 Wheels of Love
August 9, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this
How about nickname ‘Metro’ for Gonzales…as in metronome? I like Cobra a lot but, like mentioned earlier, it has been used before.
By TexasBrave
August 9, 2008 7:21 PM | Link to this
ncscoots not razzing you, but if something ain’t working then try something else. Who knows what or who might be a spark to light this offense.
I don’t think that Infante is an everyday player. But while the going is good ride that horse until he tires then change to a new one. Also Prado has still a lot to prove but how is he going to do that until he gets some quality playing time. Now that we are out of the running of the playoffs no better time to find out.
By McFann ;Ô;
August 9, 2008 7:26 PM | Link to this
18 Wheels of Love—
No! No! Metronomes are evil, I tell you!
Besides, how would it look to have a Brave with the nickname Metro?
Might as well call a Boston player “Yank”!
By bravos2249
August 9, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this
DOB
i don’t know about Cobra but at the Ted it’d be cool if the scoreboard said something like “Time to ROCK”…witht the “O” being a baseball, like when Smoltz was closer and they had SMOLTZ up there
By Hallelujah!
August 9, 2008 7:32 PM | Link to this
There is a God! Cox is actually sitting Jeff!
It’s not a matter of punishment or showing him up. It’s a matter of performance. Jeff may yet get his ducks in a row, but what does it say to players who are outperforming him and having to sit while Jeff does little or nothing?
You can’t tell me that a guy who is outperforming Jeff will not feel a little raw with Jeff continuing to get the PT while they platoon the other two outfield positions. No matter what those guys say publicly, they have no soul and aren’t real competitors if they are “alright” with sitting while a non-performing Frenchy continues to get PT over them.
By Wayne in Utah
August 9, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this
OK, you folks are not going to believe this story.
Early on Friday morning, about 300 miles North of Salt Lake City, I had a wild idea that my 16 year old son and I should go down to Phoenix to see the Saturday and Sunday Braves games.
We started out in mom’s convertible at 8:30pm in the Salt Lake Valley. After sleeping about 4 hours in the car near St George, we then headed on toward Phoenix (700 mile trip).
About 90 miles north of Phoenix at 11:30 this morning, our car broke down, 20 miles from the nearest town. Two and a half hours later, we were leaving Wickenburg with a newly installed battery and alternator, after being towed in and replacing those parts in 104 degree heat.
Logan and I were dirty and beat, but felt as if we were on the top of the world, as we would have never dreamed 2.5 hours earlier we would have gotten to Phoenix in time for the game.
Game now starts in 40 minutes, and after showers, we have both decided we are too beat and worn out to walk the 4 blocks to the game this evening.
So, we will watch on the local TV, if it is on, or listen to gameday audio if not televised.
What some fans will do to see a Braves game! We are now looking forward to a couple of power naps while the game is on, AND we will contribute two more butz to the attendance tomorrow afternoon.
(Would love to say hello to DOB, but I know that is probably hard to pull off.)
Go Braves!!
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 7:35 PM | Link to this
Also Prado has still a lot to prove but how is he going to do that until he gets some quality playing time. Now that we are out of the running of the playoffs no better time to find out TexasBrave
yes hes been limited in Major League AB, but hes been proving plenty..yes he should be in lineup everyday
By varoadrunner
August 9, 2008 7:43 PM | Link to this
DOB
Sorry if I missed it, but are the Braves on local TV tonight?
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 7:43 PM | Link to this
Wayne in Utah wow intense story..YOU my friend are a valued braves fan. Congrats
By Jeff321
August 9, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this
DOB — Speaking of funny.
Judging by how Mike Hampton’s pitched in his return, should the Braves re-sign the right-hander?
Did you put that poll up on the AJC/Braves page? Or perhaps someone else who doesn’t realize Mike Hampton is a left handed pitcher?
By McFann ;Ô;
August 9, 2008 7:44 PM | Link to this
Wayne—
Dang! That’s a shame! Sorry you can’t go to the game. At least you’ll be there tomorrow (we gonna miss the telecast).
Hopefully they’ve got better bratz at the D-Backs’ stadium!
; )
By Josh M
August 9, 2008 7:58 PM | Link to this
The game is on Sportsouth tonight, but it’s not on their schedule for some reason. But turn it on - it’s there.
By 18 Wheels of Love
August 9, 2008 8:03 PM | Link to this
Yeah, Metro is a bit…metro. Maybe if he was a Metropolitan.
Ever hear My Morning Jacket’s song Cobra? Nice, long crazy tune with a lot of different hooks and beats. Really sweet tune.
By McFann ;Ô;
August 9, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this
N Nine—
I agree. A valued fann indeed!
Jeff321—
I saw that on the poll. Ridiculous.
By Steve from OH
August 9, 2008 8:06 PM | Link to this
DOB
Sorry to keep asking, but when is Acosta expected to be re-activated?
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this
Wow, McCann just hit a pretty good pitch by Haren, pulls a low and outer-half pitch over the LF fence. What a hitter.
By TNJeff
August 9, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this
DOB
Thanks for responding to my comment at 1:11 pm - been gone all day & just read it.
Ummmmmmmm….. my endnote about remembering Skip & the Infield Fly Rule was intended to make a joke about all the folks asking you the same question which you had previously clearly answered. DID a great job again though! I’m on board.
By TexasBrave
August 9, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this
Man should have had three runs. I thought Escobar knew how to bunt.
By Jeff321
August 9, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this
Why does Cox tell Yunel to bunt when he obviously isn’t very good?
I think Blanco was safe at first but only saw one replay.
McCann comes through once again. Just imagine if he was in the cleanup spot all year.
By McFann ;Ô;
August 9, 2008 8:20 PM | Link to this
HOME RUN!!! The Big Boys get us two runs! So good to have them both back! (Man, Wayne, darn that car of yours!)
18 Wheels of Love—
No, never heard that one.
By mr baseball
August 9, 2008 8:24 PM | Link to this
Things have been going nicely the past few days, and got off to a promising start tonight, then Chance the Manager makes his predictable and brainless presence felt.
Why he has this obsession with having Escobar bunt in the first inning after Blanco gets on base makes no sense whatsoever, but you can say that about a lot of Cox’s managerial decisions.
Clearly, Escobar doesn’t want to bunt and can’t do it worth a dam, but Cox keeps asking him to do. No attempted steal. No hit and run. No just letting Escobar swing away.
They say a sign of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. I’ll leave it there.
Fortunately, great talent can sometimes overcome managerial incompetence, as Braves fans frequently witnessed throughout the 1990s until 2005 or so. Chipper and Heap get Chance off the hook, sort of.
There’s hope for this team, yet. But there would be a lot more cause for optimism if someone else was making the decisions in the dugout.
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 8:25 PM | Link to this
Today pujols 2-4 HR .350
chipper so far .373
By Jake
August 9, 2008 8:32 PM | Link to this
Esco has been struggling with the bunt lately. I know they want him to be good at it since he is likely gonna be the two hole hitter. However I don’t mind them forgoing the bunt sometimes. With Blanco on base in front him I would treat him like a left handed hitter. Escobars natural swing is to the opposite field. I think he has gotten a little pull happy this year. Hopefully though he can get back to is inside out swing attitude and think pull second.
By Andy k.
August 9, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this
Kelly J. strikes out…why isn’t Prado playing??
By brent a.
August 9, 2008 8:36 PM | Link to this
Okay, once through the order and ALL THREE of the BRAVES outfielders have been on base.
And Francoeur has been on the bench.
Plus, after Kotsay’s single, Joe Simpson noted how for the fifth straight game, the Braves appear to have improved their approach at the plate.
Similar to what I said this morning (only I took it back to last Saturday’s game against Milwaukee).
Take your weakest link out of the line-up, and you get addition by subtraction.
I wish Jeff well, and hope he turns it around for us, but there is no good reason to keep trotting the man out there as poorly as he is performing. (Arguably the worst every day player in all of baseball).
We could actually be 7.5 games out at the end of the night. Doesn’t mean much, but it isn’t 14.5 out, and because of that, let’s go with what works, and not what we hope works.
Go Braves!
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 8:39 PM | Link to this
MCFANN i guess the turtle is happy and doing well!
Well i have been a KJ defender..but..if..it helps the team im ok with a trade and put in PRADO!!!
Since we will need pitching and someone would have to go..i guess im open to ideas.
Fuego Fante refuses to get benched ever again..jeff taking notes buddy?
By McFann ;Ô;
August 9, 2008 8:40 PM | Link to this
Just loved the way McCann reached out for that ball!
Hmm…Looks like Jurrjens took some bunting lessons from Escobar…
By MAV
August 9, 2008 8:41 PM | Link to this
mr baseball
INSANITY is believing Escobar can hit and run or even just hit lately. In case you haven’t noticed he is stinking it up lately. If he can’t bunt maybe he should learn. FUNDAMENTALS!
By McFann ;Ô;
August 9, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this
N Nine—
Oh yeah. Rally McTurtle is VERY happy right now!
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this
What the &*^% was that? Chipper must’ve thought there were two outs. No other explanation for running on that.
By Jeff321
August 9, 2008 8:55 PM | Link to this
I have been a Kelly Johnson fan for a while.. but its obvious his slumps are a lot longer than his streaks.
ENOUGH, bench Kelly Johnson at once! And leave Prado in there until he starts making base running gaffe’s like Chipper just did, eh.
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this
Steve from OH, Acosta’s not even on the trip, so that should tell you something. His hammy is slow to healy.
By StingerSplash
August 9, 2008 8:59 PM | Link to this
Can’t keep squandering all these base runners, even against someone as good as Haren. This is always the kind of stuff that comes back to haunt the Braves. Really bad AB by Kelly. Can’t take a called third strike with the pitcher coming up next. I don’t care if it’s Bob, Gibson, Rick Rhoden or Don Robinson in the on-deck circle, you gotta swing the bat there.
By Greg in TN
August 9, 2008 9:01 PM | Link to this
Evening lads and lasses…
End of three in the desert, JJJ has tallied five strikeouts and has been staked to a 2-0 lead courtesy of the Offensive Assassin and everybody’s favorite catcher.
Chipper’s 3 for 6 since his return last night including his first inning single. Welcome back U Kno Who, you were sorely missed.
To say the Cobra, AKA Gonzo has been sharp since his return from TJ surgery is an understatement. Aside from a hiccup or two (a couple runs against the Mariners and a bad outing against the Cards), it’s safe for this denizen to say he’s exceeded expectations.
I remember being in attendance at old Riverfront (you remember that place denizens, Ohio’s astroturf carbon copy of the old ballpark in Atlanta) for a mid-80’s Reds-Expos game when the original Cobra yanked a homer that landed in the right-field pavilion, about 6 seats to the right of this rather youthful denizen.
Wayne, sounds like an odyssey more befitting of Clark Griswold, however glad to hear you made it safe and sound down to Phoenix.
By Greg in TN
August 9, 2008 9:06 PM | Link to this
Oh and Lew, package delivered yesterday and plans are underway for a place of distinction for it to set. Thanks again.
By Answer to the Aflac Trivia Question
August 9, 2008 9:08 PM | Link to this
Dr. James Andrews was a champion pole vaulter at LSU.
By Yokohama Daze
August 9, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this
Shame to see him go down, but what an impressive AB for Infante. Dude knows how to play the game!
It’s Sunday morning here, and the national high school baseball tourney is in full swing. It’s practically a national obsession here, and all games are televised. Watching the kids play, you ask why, oh why, can every single one of these kids properly square up and execute a bunt (including the 3-4 hitters), and yet our beloved Braves flounder so woefully at this basic baseball skill (well, outside of Smoltz and Glavine)? I just cannot understand the failure to master fundamentals on the part of some of our players.
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 9:13 PM | Link to this
Goes down as a strikeout in books, but Infante made Haren work a lot on that 13-pitch, seven-foul at-bat to start the inning.
By Lew
August 9, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this
Greg in Tn-You’re welcome.
Jeff321-No hard feelings, Dude? You DID leave the door open wide enough to drive a semi through.
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this
End of 4th..
Haren 76 pitches Jurrjens 3.06 ERA
jurrjens,ohman,fuego fante= Wren is a thief
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 9:14 PM | Link to this
End of 4th..
Haren 76 pitches Jurrjens 3.06 ERA
jurrjens,ohman,fuego fante= Wren is a thief
By TexasBrave
August 9, 2008 9:15 PM | Link to this
OK I am going to have to jump on the Prado at second base band wagon.
By I was a teenage Francophile
August 9, 2008 9:17 PM | Link to this
The substitute right-fielder is Infante.
The regular right-fielder is Infantile.
By StingerSplash
August 9, 2008 9:20 PM | Link to this
Runner on. Two out. Pitcher on deck. Your mission should you choose to accept it — and you do because you are a major league baseball player — is to find a way to get on base. Can’t do that staring a 2-2 pitch again, can you? Gotta swing the bat, KJ. If you won’t, Prado will.
By brent a.
August 9, 2008 9:25 PM | Link to this
Another example of poor defense by Kelly Johnson, which doesn’t get reported as an error, nor will it show up in the box score.
If the Diamondbacks score any more runs this inning - it’s on him.
Hopefully, they won’t, but …
Curious, what would Kelly Johnson’s “range factor” tell us about that play?
By Jeff321
August 9, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this
McFann Did you see McCann just get cheated? I told you his arm was ready for action! Very impressive throw if I do say so myself.
By Greg in TN
August 9, 2008 9:27 PM | Link to this
Nice hustle on the Reynolds single by Kotsay to keep Chad Tracy on third. Then a nice play by Jurrjens to snag Escobar’s throw on the double play attempt on Romero’s grounder to first.
Credit Romero with a good slide on the steal attempt, but KJ needs to keep the tag applied in case the runner slides off the bag, Romero either just about did or did from the last replay I saw.
By Random
August 9, 2008 9:28 PM | Link to this
Calm DOWN, McFann — take it easy.
You’ll startle the turtle.
By McFann =Ô=
August 9, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this
It’s fitting that McCann’s beating them up at this park (.364 AVG in this series).
‘Cause they beat him up at this park…literally.
Glad he’s OK!
By BostonBravesGirl
August 9, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this
Oooh, Francophile, very nice at 9:17!
By bravos2249
August 9, 2008 9:32 PM | Link to this
OF is 3-4 with a walk!
By Goodoleboy58
August 9, 2008 9:51 PM | Link to this
ncscoots
I still dont see what you are complaining about with the lineup… the only change is that Frenchy is out of it… and if he is your “answer” to our power struggles then i dont see the question
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 9:52 PM | Link to this
Talk about blowing a game.
Escobar probably wouldn’t have had the out at home, but his error created that second run on sac fly.
Combined with the one or two runs they’ve cost themselves with bad baserunning and bunting ….
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
Any chance FRENCHY pitch hits and becomes today’s hero?
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 9:55 PM | Link to this
12th error of season for Yunel, and his third on this trip
By McFann =Ô=
August 9, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this
RATS!! Thanks Escobar! Sheesh…
Dang! Why couldn’t BMac have gotten a hit with two on in the top of the fifth? Man!
Jeff321—
Oh yeah. I saw it. He’s gotten cheated a lot this year.
But that was a very good throw. Every throw he’s made since returning to the lineup has been great. He’s ready for action all right! It’s a shame he’s only got one CS to show for it…
Random—
I’ll try…
By FUEGO FANTE
August 9, 2008 9:59 PM | Link to this
how you like me now?
Prado and I will bring you a championship ring back to ATLANTA!
By Jake
August 9, 2008 10:00 PM | Link to this
Sheesh, let’s get the bats going again boys. I agree with something someone said earlier. KJ has got to stop taking so many called third. I don’t know if he is thinking to much or what but he is being outguessed right now. He takes a lot of balls inside for a strike but seems to have a weakness for the off speed pitches away from him. That’s kind of backwards for a pull hitter like him. He better figure out quick though because Prado is knocking and seeing as this season is probably done in terms of the playoffs, why not at least platoon Martin with KJ to see what he’s got.
By StingerSplash
August 9, 2008 10:01 PM | Link to this
Runners in scoring position. Less than two outs. Pitcher spot up next. OK, Kelly, time to make amends.
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 10:02 PM | Link to this
Kelly was c-l-u-t-c-h there.
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this
kelly delivers!
By StingerSplash
August 9, 2008 10:03 PM | Link to this
Way to go, Kelly! That’s the way to come through!
By Greg in TN
August 9, 2008 10:06 PM | Link to this
DOB: Looked like Escobar was waiting for a hop that never came with the ball hitting near the edge of the grass, but agree there, he’s got to get the glove on the ground in that situation.
Really nice job of two-out hitting there by KJ to score two, especially after looking not so good in his first two ABs, then a nice opposite field single by JJJ and Haren is heading to the showers.
By kirknga
August 9, 2008 10:07 PM | Link to this
Good hit for KJ he and the team really need that hit then.
Braves did ok against a tough pitcher tonight.
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 10:10 PM | Link to this
Glavine 5 innings, 4 hits, 3 runs (2 earned), 1 walk, 1 strikeout. Threw 74 pitches, felt good.
He’s scheduled to start for Braves on Thursday against the Cubs. Cubs haven’t announced their starters yet for series.
By Goodoleboy58
August 9, 2008 10:10 PM | Link to this
Jair and Campillo with run support? Is this the Braves we know?
By Goodoleboy58
August 9, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this
There you go Yunel… way to take one for the team
By StingerSplash
August 9, 2008 10:14 PM | Link to this
In other news … Matt Ryan — 9 of 15 for 113 yards and a touchdown.
By brent a.
August 9, 2008 10:17 PM | Link to this
Is it just me, or do Braves games no longer feel as if they are “over” as soon as the Braves fall behind?
For most of the season, it felt like once we got behind, we had no chance.
All of a sudden, I look up and down our line-up, and feel comfortable that the guys we send up their have a chance to put something together.
Not enough power, but still not a terrible line-up.
By Greg in TN
August 9, 2008 10:20 PM | Link to this
Great job of hitting by B-Mac.
Juan Cruz may have just cost his team dearly by that errant throw to second base. Not looking good in terms of Orlando Hudson writhing around on the ground after that play.
By cabravesfan
August 9, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this
Mac just took out 2 D’Backs
By Goodoleboy58
August 9, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this
Can someone tell me whats going on with B-mac’s atbat my yahoo tracker is frozen on him
By brent a.
August 9, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this
Well, McCann’s certainly paying ‘em back, isn’t he?
“Diamondback’s just glad that Brian McCann’s off the field.” Joe Simpson
By keylargo
August 9, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this
Francoeur should take some tapes of Albert Pujols, do some serious inventory taking, and see how a real pro hits. They are both about the same size, but there is nothing Jeff does close to as good as Pujols.
Hey BMac - Remember to save a few knockdowns for the Phillies. They are due.
By Random
August 9, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this
How cool would it have been if McCann had just gratuitously flattened the catcher as well
By Couch Tater
August 9, 2008 10:23 PM | Link to this
Heckuva at-bat by Brian.
By StingerSplash
August 9, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this
I haven’t seen someone knock this many people out of a game since Adrian Peterson ran all over Massachusetts in a playoff game and literally knocked two guys unconscious on a touchdown run.
By Jeff321
August 9, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this
Its not McCann’s fault!
Wow, Hudson’s wrist just about did a 360..
I was quite surprised Kelly Johnson actually came through with a 2 rbi double.
Wow, now Reynolds is down! Its not McCann’s fault!
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 10:25 PM | Link to this
MCTURTLE HAS ERUPTED
AGAIN TURTLE VERY HAPPY RIGHT NOW
By McFann =Ô=
August 9, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this
Dang, Brian’s takin’ ‘em out one by one!
When I said “It’s fitting that he’s beating them up”, I didn’t mean…
That’s scary about Hudson. Dang, I apologize, D-Backs!
Oh well….311, two more RBI, another stolen base, and well, interference on the part of the third baseman…
By Stuart
August 9, 2008 10:27 PM | Link to this
B-Mac BRINGING THE PAIN in the desert. You gotta love. Chipper sure does. Did you see him in the dugout? Hillarious.
By StingerSplash
August 9, 2008 10:28 PM | Link to this
Think Jones and McCann mean anything to this lineup? It’s 26 runs in 24 innings against the D-Backs and their pitching staff.
By Wayne in Utah
August 9, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this
Fall asleep and it’s 2-1 Braves. Wake up to 9-3 Braves.
Seems I am the one who is “clutch” for the team tonight!
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 10:29 PM | Link to this
wow what a inning! 2009 braves dont look so bad now especially if we upgrade in pitching..im starting to feel good about the braves again. I believe frank wren will do the best he can to give us a chance for 09…
By A bemused observer
August 9, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this
Not enough power, but still not a terrible line-up.
Hip Hip Hoorah! Our lineup’s NOT TERRIBLE.
Alert the media.
By bravos2249
August 9, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this
Pujols took out 2 in one game…Chirs Young pitching with a liner and the catcher.
By Train Wreck Bystander
August 9, 2008 10:32 PM | Link to this
While we are on the subject of changing people’s nicknames…
I think it’s time for “Heap” McCann to become “Bags” McCann.
By StingerSplash
August 9, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
keylargo,
you’re right — mccann and the braves owe the phillies some. They play hard but it’s time to give some back to them. Jeff’s probably a little taller than Pujols but that dude is thick all the way through. Thick shoulders, thick chest, thick base (that means butt and thighs, but I’m not noticing. I swear).
By Steve
August 9, 2008 10:33 PM | Link to this
DOB: Speaking of Mamet, do you love House of Games? Still my favorite of his. Just an incredible movie. Also - saw Pineapple Express today. Not very good. And I love a good stoner movie - but this was lazy and too long and self-indulgent. Not good. Beware.
By Goodoleboy58
August 9, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this
I till believe
By BravesFanLostInOH
August 9, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this
Wow…the Braves really missed Jones and McCann!
By MattyRoss
August 9, 2008 10:38 PM | Link to this
Steve re: Pineapple Express: I totally agree. All my friends were loving it. I was not. At all. I am loving seeing another team throw the ball all over the yard, though.
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this
hey Wayne hows that hotel doing? guess you can feel better now that your going in tomorrow for a possible 4game sweep at hand.
By ALAGT
August 9, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this
DOB —- Frank, maybe getting a call from AZ about KJ or Prado if Hudson is out for the remaider of the season … may be hard getting either one thru waivers?? What do you Think?
By keylargo
August 9, 2008 10:43 PM | Link to this
Hudson’s wrist sure looked bad on the replay. I’d say he is at least headed to the DL and might be through for the year.
I’m waiting for a post any minute from the west coast from Bobby’s Cox suggesting that the Diamondback’s should try to get Brandon Webb though waivers to Atlanta in return for Martin Prado who could lead the D Backs to the World Series.
By McFann ;Ô;
August 9, 2008 10:45 PM | Link to this
N Nine—
Yes, very happy Turtle!
Man, Wayne! You missed a crazy inning! McCann was rounding the bases and leaving destruction in his path!
Hmm…gotta get up early tomorrow. So that means the computer goes off now.
Think they’ll plunk McCann his next time up? Ha!
Stuart—
Yeah, Chipper was having a good time with it! (Not Hudson’s injury, but you get my drift.)
Night, all!
By brent a.
August 9, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this
N Nine,
the Braves line-up tonight includes a group of guys who know how to approach an at-bat, 1-8.
Not enough power; but nonetheless, guys who are willing to step up and take what the pitcher gives them, take pitches, swing at strikes and recognize the importance of putting the ball in play.
They clearly aren’t perfect. Kelly struck out looking with the pitcher on deck to end an inning (but made up for it in a big way), and Escobar has really struggled with some fundamental aspects of his offense (but he might be injured - no excuse for not being able to bunt, though).
I think the Braves, in some ways, benefitted from losing Tex. Adding Tex to this team put an odd pressure on the team. From the moment he arrived in Atlanta, it seemed as if everyone knew that he was a hired gun who would be gone no later than the end of 2008. After not having enough pitching last season, combined with Tex’s own inability to carry the team early this season, the inevitability of Tex’s departure seemed as if it may have weighed on everyone’s mind, and performance.
Now, if we can get past the Francoeur problem (and he should still be in the minors, but I digress), we can perhaps start to truly move forward.
That being said, Hampton’s arm could still fall off, and Morton could get rocked by the Cubs in his next outing. Also, Boyer is worn out, and Soriano (who has a guaranteed $4 million coming to him next season) either A) doesn’t want to pitch, or B) has a problem no one can find, which likely means that once they find it - we’ll be looking to patch up another big piece of our bullpen with a spare part.
But, in conclusion, I think the fog may well be lifting off of this team. And yes, I think the two biggest clouds were 1) Teixeira and 2) Francoeur.
Tex is gone. While I like his bat, his contract/agent issue was a weight.
Francoeur is another story, but I hope that Bobby will continue to sit him enough that we can get a good look at what the alternative is. If we can continue to put together good offensive nights without Francoeur in the line-up, then perhaps we can shed that weight as well.
Go Braves!
By Random
August 9, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
The catcher’s revenge — McCann up-ending the third baseman. LOL
Changing the subject: Who here remembers Augie Doggie and Doggie Daddy?
By Random
August 9, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this
The catcher’s revenge — McCann up-ending the third baseman. LOL
Changing the subject: Who here remembers Augie Doggie and Doggie Daddy?
By Yokohama Daze
August 9, 2008 10:51 PM | Link to this
Man, go out to buy coffee and milk, and the Braves start acting like schoolyard bullies. Where have these guys been all season?
By Couch Tater
August 9, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
Buddy Carlyle just does whatever they ask him to do. Nice pitching and batting.
By Steve from OH
August 9, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this
Craig Kimbrel continues to dominate at Rome, throwing two scoreless innings and striking out 3 tonight. His ERA (between Rome and Danville) is 0.37 with a 0.66 WHIP.
By Yokohama Daze
August 9, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
Wow- Blanco with the count 3-1 is 10-26 with 31 walks. Impressive!
Well, he made an out here, but his .373 OBP is very good for someone with a little more than half a season’s experience to build on. Will be interesting to see if he continues to develop as a leadoff hitter.
By Random
August 9, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
10-4, good buddy, what’s your 20?
By Confucious say...
August 9, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this
700 mile journey begin with oil change and tuneup (and inspection).
By ncgary
August 9, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this
looking good
By keylargo
August 9, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this
StingerSplash - someone was talking about pitchers back in the day and how they went so much deeper into the game than todays. The pitchers body has evolved from yesteryears big thighs and butts to todays tall and lanky prototype.
And the complete game has become almost extinct.
One guy that kind of spanned both generations was Roger Clemens. He always looked fit but he was a LOAD. You didn’t see to many people charging the mound on him.
By Wayne in Utah
August 9, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this
If we sweep tommorrow, I am taking partial credit!
Nite McFann. Saw some replays on the D’back’s broadcast.
Gotta run out and gets some more pants now….others have grease on them from my new career as a “light mechanic”.
By Wayne in Utah
August 9, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this
If we sweep tommorrow, I am taking partial credit!
Nite McFann. Saw some replays on the D’back’s broadcast.
Gotta run out and gets some more pants now….others have grease on them from my new career as a “light mechanic”.
By McCann for NL MVP
August 9, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this
I know this isn’t a contending team, but McCann HAS to get some serious MVP consideration.
By Random
August 9, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this
Well, “Briany Mac” at least is still alive and kicking.
By Interested Observer
August 9, 2008 11:11 PM | Link to this
Stealing one from SportsSouth, if you were stranded on a deserted island, which Brave would you want with you?
At first I thought Will Ohman because he could keep me entertained. But then I decided I should go with McCann. If we were attacked by a wild animal, he’s the only Brave I would have a chance to outrun!
By BravesFanLostInOH
August 9, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this
Kotchman runs like McCann…
By Greg in TN
August 9, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this
Not exactly sterling defense tonight by the Snakes what with all of the problems after B-Mac’s sixth inning single, the wild throw on his stolen base attempt at third, the misplay by Romero on Escobar’s eighth inning single that allowed Carlyle to score and Connor Jackson not able to track the fly ball off the bat of Casey Kotchman.
Leather is in short supply in the desert.
By Jeff321
August 9, 2008 11:19 PM | Link to this
Buddy Carlyle just does whatever they ask him to do. Nice pitching and batting.
I agree, Carlyle is a GAMER!
Meanwhile, KJ strikes out for the fourth time tonight. (With of course a 2-run double.)
By keylargo
August 9, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this
Dislocated or fractured wrist for Orlando Hudson.
By TexasBrave
August 9, 2008 11:21 PM | Link to this
Wow 4 strikeouts for KJ, but he did come through with a double. Wonder if Prado could have done better.
I haven’t seen too many games this year. Opinions on who is the better second baseman, Prado or KJ?
By Blaine Boyer is a large tub of goo
August 9, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this
The pitchers body has evolved from yesteryears big thighs and butts to todays tall and lanky prototype.
The exception that proves the rule: the large tub of goo named Blaine Boyer.
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 11:24 PM | Link to this
Damn, I thought big Mac was gonna take out the whole Arizona team tonight.
What an inexplicable series for the Braves. They’ve now handed both Haren and Webb their highest hits totals of the season (10 each) and Haren his highest runs total.
Also first winning trip of the year for the Braves (4-2 already, with one game to go)
And it’s first time they’ve won three straight road games all year, other than the last two before break and another to start next trip eight days later.
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 11:28 PM | Link to this
Knew it’d get better when Mac and then Chipper got back in lineup, but wasn’t expecting THIS.
By Bobby Cox
August 9, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this
Wayne, you and I have alot in common. For many years, I often traveled 700 miles during the regular season but quit 4 blocks from the ultimate destination in the postseason. A true Braves fan indeed.
By StingerSplash
August 9, 2008 11:30 PM | Link to this
keylargo,
Yeah, but if you ask Roger Clemens if he’s put on weight, he’ll just say, “It didn’t happen. That never happened.” Clemens in 1985 looked a little different from Clemens in 2005, and I don’t mean the haircuts over 20 years.
To bolster your point, look at Nolan Ryan. Dude pitched almost as long as Gordie Howe played hockey and threw gas right up to the end.
By Greg in TN
August 9, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this
Vladimir Nunez comes back to shut the door in the ninth after a lead-off single by Montero and a Tony Clark walk. Nice to see him come back after the walk, which I am sure drew a little ire from Roger and BC.
And I didn’t mean to short B-Mac a stolen base with my earlier post.
How many games have you seen end with the ball hitting the batter after he’s left the batters box? Wild sixth and a very odd ending to the game, but a win is a win is a win.
By ncgary
August 9, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this
wander what the vegas odds of an atlanta detroit world series are at this point, improbable but not beyond the realm of possibilities
By BravesFanChris23
August 9, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this
WOW, What A Game ! !
Brian “Raging Bull” McCann is definitely player of the game. I do hope Orlando Hudson is OK though, but Brian played the game tonight aggressively and it paid off. Good to see the offense going good and the pitching has been just as solid as ever this season.
Poor Kotchman getting the 1st and 3rd out in one inning. Is that some kind of record? That’s OK though, because he got a nice double a few innings later.
Come on Braves, don’t let up, lets go for the sweep.
By N Nine
August 9, 2008 11:42 PM | Link to this
RA VS RS
braves have the 6th best runs differential.. +30 runs!! while marlins have been outscored by 24 runs..and only 6 games ahead now. amazing.
How is our record so bad?—one run games
blows me away how marlins have a winning record and we dont. I believe we are a better team than marlins..only lacking power.(compared to)
If hudson did break wrist that would be a severe blow to the First place snakes.
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this
Carlyle backers will love this from Cox, unprompted after game, after he’d commented about Jurrjens’ performance:
“The guy that gets overlooked these days is Buddy Carlyle. He’s quietly having a nice year. Less hits than innings pitched, more strikeouts than innings pitched, and throwing strikes. He’s really been overlooked and probably underused.”
By Couch Tater
August 9, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this
I’m glad they got Kotchman to provide B-Mac with “protecton”. (as I have a sarcasm.)
By David O'Brien
August 9, 2008 11:55 PM | Link to this
O. Hudson: fractured or dislocated wrist. Either way, probably done for season.
By Blaine Boyer is a large tub of goo
August 10, 2008 12:06 AM | Link to this
Buddy Carlyle… He’s really been overlooked and probably underused.
Well, DUHHHHHHH!!!
By keylargo
August 10, 2008 12:09 AM | Link to this
StingerSplash
Nolan Ryan was one of those big butt and legs guys and also was one of those guys who only a complete idiot would charge the mound on. Just ask Robin Ventura, LOL. That was one of the funniest moments in baseball history when Ventura charged the mound after being hit. Even he said “halfway there I was asking myself what the hell am I doing?”
When Ventura got to the mound Ryan put him in a headlock and gave him 6 or 8 noogies. Just pounded his head. Ryan was over 40 but no one ever charged the mound again.
By Gil In Mechanicsville
August 10, 2008 12:15 AM | Link to this
“The guy that gets overlooked these days is Buddy Carlyle. He’s quietly having a nice year. Less hits than innings pitched, more strikeouts than innings pitched, and throwing strikes. He’s really been overlooked and probably underused.”
UH OH…..
By uga-brave
August 10, 2008 12:54 AM | Link to this
b macc looked like rommel out there in the desert. speaking of nickames how about desert fox.
nice to see the braves beat a good pitcher. blanco and infante might not be prototype outfielders but they make the pitcher work.
deep counts take their toll on pitchers.
By David O'Brien
August 10, 2008 1:06 AM | Link to this
Here’s some aural bliss for you, the Hacienda Brothers’ cover of the great Gamble/Huff-penned classic, “Cowboys to Girls”
By David O'Brien
August 10, 2008 1:11 AM | Link to this
uga-brave, I love it: “B Mac looked like Rommel out there in the desert.”
And no doubt about working the pitcher with those long at-bats. In retrospect, how much did the Braves miss Infante and Prado early on? A lot. I asked Chipper that today, and he agreed. Looking back now, it’s obvious.
They were both out a couple months, Infante even longer if you include spring training and most of April-May.
By StingerSplash
August 10, 2008 1:25 AM | Link to this
Glavine - healthy. Hampton - looked great at SF, and healthy. Jurrjens - looks likes he’s holding up to the rigors of the season. Morton - let’s just hope he doesn’t get JoJoReyesitis, that is, it looks like he has turned a corner, but stepped in front of an oncoming dump truck. Campillo - the Mexican Austin Powers (International Man of Mystery, because you know guys go back to the dugout thinking, “How the _ did he get me out?). Gonzo - back, and smoking. Chipper and McCann - back and healthy. Kotchman - appears to be settling in. Infante/Prado/Blanco - seems like at least one of those guys is always having a good game.
8 1/2 back. You don’t think …. nah, couldn’t happen. Just couldn’t happen. Right? Right?
By KC
August 10, 2008 1:28 AM | Link to this
Sucks about O.Hudson. On one hand, I really feel bad for him and the D-Backs. On the other hand, however, I’m fresh out of sympathy for any injury trouble other teams may run into.
By uga-brave
August 10, 2008 1:34 AM | Link to this
jjj finally got some run support. the guy has been better then anyone could of imagined. young guy, new team, new surroundings, sure looks and acts beyond his years.
tigers are going to look back on this trade and get the shakes.
the guy has mound prescence. morton and jjj should be around here for a while.
By Mitchell
August 10, 2008 1:43 AM | Link to this
for the record, i’m totally down with the cobra. on the online poll i voted for gonzo cause i thought, “what the hell is ‘cobra’?” but now that dob has explained it, i support it completely.
i would add that his motion could also be described as lock-up-your-daughters and “mike-there-are-children-in-attendence”, or you know, something to that extent. either way, he’s a freaking bad a%#.
it took me a while tonight to realize that jeff was not in the line-up. i wasn’t really able to watch the game with the sound on so i couldn’t figure it out at first. i don’t know what to say, i totally missed him not being in there. i was really sad. no i wasn’t. damn, that was hilarious.
i have to say i feel bad for the d-backs. i thought they were going to be like the best team in the nl and i guess they’re still in first but man, they look terrible. as for orlando hudson, i really didn’t see how he got hurt. it would be a shame for him to be out for the season and i feel bad for him but you can’t blame brian for it. although i don’t really like the d-backs, they did beat us up quite a bit last year, but they’re not the team i can really enjoy and revel in mercilessly beating and demoralizing.
teams i would love to destroy and embarrass and and injure and denigrate: cubs, phillies, mets, marlins, reds, cubs, astros, cardinals, cubs
i’m pretty much an anti-social sociopath when it comes to every other team in the nl. i hate them all. i especially hate the cubs. i think i hate the cubs more than the phillies. it’s hard to hate the mets really, we just beat them too much to get worked up over it. i hope we throw at soriano in his first at-bat. i can’t explain how much i hate that guy, alfonso… not rafael.
i want a fight with the cubs and i definitely want a fastball at shane victorino’s face when the f!@$^!!@# phillies come back here. yeah… i’m that guy. that’s how i roll.
but what am i saying? i’m a lover, not a fighter. i just love my braves, but you know it don’t come easy.
good win tonight. let’s get back to 5 hundred darnit!
By uga-brave
August 10, 2008 1:46 AM | Link to this
stimger,
not a chance. if it was one team it would be a real stretch, but three not a chance.
i still think they loose 90 games this year.
By fastasballs
August 10, 2008 1:55 AM | Link to this
Once again the Braves played some damn good baseball. McCann’s bat is amazing, but I don’t quite have words to decribe his ground game. Every time he takes off the opposing team has that look like somebody just pulled off a fumblerooski on them.
You think he’s going to be out by 30 feeet, but when the dust clears he’s safe & there is usually some sort of carnage left in his wake.
By N Nine
August 10, 2008 1:57 AM | Link to this
tigers are going to look back on this trade and get the shakes uga-brave
way too early to compare but just like smoltzie!!!
By Roman Gal
August 10, 2008 2:07 AM | Link to this
Tyler Flowers is really killin’ it in Myrtle Beach. In his last 35 games here are his numbers:
.385 AVG, .493 OBP, .650 SLG, 1.143 OPS
In August here are his numbers so far:
.583 AVG, .667 OBP, 1.208 SLG, 1.875 OPS
By StingerSplash
August 10, 2008 2:08 AM | Link to this
This from Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe’s notes, in talking about Manny Ramirez changing agents last year (he jumped on board with Boras):
Gary Sheffield had major issues with Boras, who tried to get 5 percent of Sheffield’s $39 million deal with the Yankees, which Sheffield said he negotiated himself after firing Boras. Sheffield has tried to tell his Tiger teammates to be wary of Boras.
By BA
August 10, 2008 2:19 AM | Link to this
Roman Gal- Flowers is going to be some kind of power hitter if he can cut back on his strikeouts. But how about that Myrtle Beach lineup this year! Can you imagine the powerhouse that Mississippi is going to be NEXT season?
By David O'Brien
August 10, 2008 2:26 AM | Link to this
Mitchell, that’s quite a bit of p-and-v you’re bringing to the table at this late hour. I like it.
By uga-brave
August 10, 2008 2:49 AM | Link to this
jeff says he thinks he has loop in his swing.
took him 2 1/2 years to realize that. dude you have been dropping your hands forever. try pushing them up and back when you start your motion. it will do two things, it will make you keep your weight back and it will act as a trigger.
as soon as he realizes that he is not mickey mantle he might actually improve.
By N Nine
August 10, 2008 3:06 AM | Link to this
DOB soo did you get a chance to inform Gonzo his nickname? is he down? i just voted the ajc question regarding the name! looks like a winner to me..
By The Olympics ain't what they used to be
August 10, 2008 3:14 AM | Link to this
I’m just sayin’
By CharlieAlphaBravo
August 10, 2008 4:54 AM | Link to this
Hudson’s gonna have nightmares of Mac coming at him in slow motion… They’re going to be unusually long nightmares apparently…
By Boogy Von Stoogy.
August 10, 2008 4:55 AM | Link to this
Gonzo,Gonzo,Gonzo,I like it.Gonzalez has said he likes it,I’m sticking with it.
By richbrave
August 10, 2008 7:55 AM | Link to this
See my man MORTON has had two good outings in a row. If the formula holds true that prevailed here in RICHMOND, its time for a small step back. But make no mistake, CHARLIE has what it takes to excel in the NL - fastballs(as in plural), slider, change-up, 12 to 6 curve…. If he stays up for the rest of ‘08 and doesn’t have his arm fall off, he steps into GLAVINE’s slot in ‘09.
Besides, my pride’s on the line with this guy. I told my grandson to get some autographs ‘cause he was gonna’ be good in the bigs. Can’t look bad with my grandson.
By richbrave
August 10, 2008 8:01 AM | Link to this
uga-brave:
Your 2;49 a.m. So you’re saying Jeff’s a legend in his own mind.
By Savannah Guy
August 10, 2008 8:12 AM | Link to this
Hudson’s gonna have nightmares of Mac coming at him in slow motion…
A real-time dream.
By Gil In Mechanicsville
August 10, 2008 8:18 AM | Link to this
richbrave Yo dude, feeling better? Got e-mail yet?
By fastasballs
August 10, 2008 8:19 AM | Link to this
Any chance Frenchy’s butt is planted on the bench again today? I know wishful thinking………
He isn’t going to do anything against Webb so why have him in there. Well even if he plays Hampton is in there so hopefully things even out.
By NCBravesFan
August 10, 2008 8:48 AM | Link to this
Good news about Glavine getting back, but do we know who the odd man out is in the rotation? It’s not like anyone’s stinking it up right now.
It’s good to see the Braves picking up the pace - like others have said, the chances they could actually win the division are much less than 10%. The math just isn’t on their side.
But in this division, they could certainly provide the Atlanta faithful an entertaining finish and provide optimism for next year - and make life hell for the teams above them in the process.
By Kentavo
August 10, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this
I’ve been to several Pelicans game and the last one was Glavine’s rehab start in which Flowers blasted two dingers - on of ‘me totally out of the park over the left field bleachers.
They better start getting him some work at other positions since Bmack is blocking his path.
By FloridaBrave
August 10, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this
BA,
I don’t see how Flowers’ strikeouts are a big deal. He doesn’t strike out THAT much. Also, considering he has more walks than strikeouts and has been dropping bombs, I don’t see the cause for alarm.
I’d love to see him shed some pounds and stay behind the dish. 245 lbs. is a lot to carry as a catcher and he’s already had knee surgery, I believe. His sticks is so much more attractive behind the dish.
If someone buys the fact his future is behind the dish, he’can be in the deal that brings us the big right-handed stick or starting pitcher. Otherwise, he’ll have a tough go of it trying to crack the big with McCann and Kotchman(/Freeman) holding it down.
By Lew
August 10, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this
NCBravesFan-I’d bet that Bueno will be the odd man out. He just got here and hasn’t pitched yet (at least I don’t think he has).
By NCBravesFan
August 10, 2008 9:11 AM | Link to this
Lew - Who do you think will be out of the rotation? Pretty clear that Hampton & Morton would be most vulnerable, unless Cox decided to juggle six guys, with two getting spot starts in order to keep everyone’s innings down.
If Cox sticks with a straight five man rotation, you can make pretty good cases for or against both Hampton and Morton. It will be interesting to see how this gets handled.
By Run Heap Run
August 10, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this
Francoeur said he wanted to have today or tomorrow off anyway, said he was going to tell Bobby, but didn’t need to after he came in today and saw the lineup. Said he was actually glad to get the day off (hey, just telling you what he said).
Nice to see his ego hasn’t taken the same nosedive his BA has.
Sounds like I missed a gem.
By i cant take it anymore
August 10, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this
i think i was at the same party as mitchell
By Savannah Guy
August 10, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this
for the record, i’m totally down with the cobra. on the online poll i voted for gonzo cause i thought, “what the hell is ‘cobra’?” but now that dob has explained it, i support it completely.
Mitchell, that’s cool. Down being, uh, in this case down but then up. Kinda like your post. On the Gonzo name thing, you’ll find plenty of folks right here who would agree with you for the same reason you stated… on the blog anyway.
Trouble is, if a nickname has to be explained it’s probably not a great one. Maybe Gonzo, aka Cobra could wear a tee shirt to explain it.
On the front it reads: The Cobra.
On the back, in parens and small type: (the uh, snake, not the Stallone movie, not the radar detector and not that personal health insurance acronym thing).
On the right sleeve: Voted best nickname on the BravesBlog, so it must be really good.
On the left sleeve: Who the hell pushed this contrived nickname on me anyway?
When Gonzales was asked about how he liked his new nickname, The Cobra, he said: Huh? A snake? Oh, just for that ajc blog? Fine. Whatever. But tell’em I like G-Rock better, or The Gonz. Or Mike.
;-)
By Lew
August 10, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this
NCBRavesFan-?????????They just sent James down-he was only called up for a spot start. The rotation (not necessarily in this order) would be Glavine, Jurrjens, Campillo, Hampton and Morton. Not too sure who else you thought was there. Don’t think I’m missing anyone. Hudson’s DL’ed and JoJo has been in Richmond for several weeks.
By N Nine
August 10, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this
NCBravesFan Jurrjens,Campillio,Glavine,Morton,Hampton. Glavine taking over Homer(chuki) James
By JC FROM UT
August 10, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this
This offense is really doing a great job. McCann should have bee the 4 hitter all season. Tex puts up good #s but never really had “good” at bats like McCann. Tex would never swing at the first pitch and I bet everyone knew this and ws continuosly 0-1 hole. Being patiant is one thing but not adjusting and continuing to hit in the hole is another. The only problem with Mac hitting 4 is who hits 4 when he needs a day off?
By NCBravesFan
August 10, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this
Lew - now see, I thought I had enough coffee before I hopped on here. Clearly, I was wrong! ;)
Thanks for brushing back the cobwebs.
By N Nine
August 10, 2008 9:34 AM | Link to this
Hey Mike (COBRA) Gonzalez please sign this sheet here..it just explains you would be locked up as a Brave until you retire..hey YOU said you wanted to be a Brave when you got traded..We love you and oh here a BMW just for signing this paper!
By Lew
August 10, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this
NCBravesFan-No problem-You had me checking the active roster to see if maybe I had a brain lapse myself. Maybe I need to start drinking coffee. I try to avoid caffeine, though. I’m a water and orange juice kind of guy. Great for hydration, not so good for a quick energy boost.
By NCBravesFan
August 10, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this
JC I think the Braves made a good trade getting Kotchman - offense seems to be turning it up, and he isn’t even hitting to his capabilities yet.
Wren has been roundly criticized by many on here, but I think the guy is a pretty shrewd customer. I’m glad we’ve got him in the trenches heading in to the offseason.
By Savannah Guy
August 10, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this
I’d bet that Bueno will be the odd man out. He just got here and hasn’t pitched yet.
Lew, maybe because when Boyer is on the mound and McDowell calls for Bueno, Chino thinks he means bueno. It’s a translation thing.
By NCBravesFan
August 10, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this
Lew Given our most recent exchange, I wouldn’t change your morning beverage routine if I were you. ;)
By David O'Brien
August 10, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this
Savannah Guy: I’m not supposed to call Gonzalez “Cobra,” but “The Gonz” is good with you? Sorry, dude, not feeling that at all. It’s Gonzo and/or Cobra.
Didn’t get to ask him yesterday. We’ll try today.
Where’s the online question about the subject that some of you referred to?
By David O'Brien
August 10, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this
Fastasballs: I’m curious about Francoeur today today, i.e. whether he’ll be in the lineup. It really wouldn’t shock me if he’s not, though I’m leaning toward he’ll probably be in there.
By Lew
August 10, 2008 10:45 AM | Link to this
SG-Dude, you could well be correct.
By McFann ;Ô;
August 10, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this
Wayne—
Glad you saw the replays. (But poor Hudson! Dang! I feel terrible about that…) Oh yeah, if they sweep, you get the credit!
That was a crazy one for sure! Prob’ly the wildest game I’ve ever seen.
Run, Heap, Run!—
You missed it? Dang, that’s a shame! If you’da been watching, you might have wanted to change your name to Charge, Heap, Charge!
It’ll be int’resting to see if Francoeur plays today (again, we’re leaving around two, so we’ll miss the starting lineups as well as the game). But I think the real question is:
Who will catch today? Sammons, or the Freight Train?
By TexasBrave
August 10, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this
Well what will Bobby’s lineup look like today? Does he set out Jeff again (which IMO is the right move) which will most likely draw Frenchy’s ire. Jeff told Bowman in so many words that he expects to play today.
KJ would be my next choice to sit down. Even though Web is a righty Kelly has not looked good at the plate, even his double yesterday would have been an out if the first baseman doesn’t slip trying to get to the ball. He had 4 strike outs yesterday and will be seeing a tougher pitcher in Web today than he faced yesterday.
However, if you sit Kelly down do you replace him with Infante or Prado. Infante has had the hot bat, but Prado has done well recently as well. I would like to see both Jeff and KJ sit today and start both Infante and Prado. I would settle for one or the other being out of the line up today. No way do I want to see both Jeff and KJ in the line up today, that would seriously diminish our offense.
By CityOfDecatur
August 10, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this
Do you know if parkings free for the memorial or is it another revenue stream. Can we only hope Francour is given today to sit. that gives him a 3 day break or maybe a little pinch hit duty. Please Bobby go with the hot hands. Jeff shed that 30 lbs you put on this winter and stretch out better maybe some yoga. the bulk up didn’t do any good and you don’t seem as limber as before. JMO
By TexasBrave
August 10, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this
McFann that is a great question as well. DGANG It is a middle of the day game instead of an early day game like noon or one. He does get a day off tomorrow. Being selfish and wanting the sweep I of course want to see him in the game today. McCann hit a home run against Web in Atlanta and would love to have that in todays game. But I could also see Bobby resting him today.
I think we will see what is really important to Bobby today. If he wants the sweep McCann, Infante and Prado play. If not, at the very least McCann will sit.
By McFann ;Ô;
August 10, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this
TexasBrave—
I’m wanting the sweep, too! Seein’ as how it is Webb, Bobby should start McCann. And with the day off tomorrow, he’ll still get some rest. I know Bobby sometimes likes to give guys the day before an off-day…uh…off, so they cann get two days off while only getting one game…off. (I apologize for the weirdness of that sentence.)
But I think Bobby should play him, no doubt. And I’ll be just dying to know! DOB, if you cann get the lineup before 2:00, or 1:45, could you please post it? Thanks! I would appreciate it!
By N Nine
August 10, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this
I’m not supposed to call Gonzalez “Cobra….It’s Gonzo and/or Cobra huh??? im confused
By Savannah Guy
August 10, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this
G-Rock, Gonzo, Cobra, Bonzo… whatever.
If Gonzales keeps pitching like he is, the name Earl would strike fear into the hearts of opposing batters.
By Jeff321
August 10, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this
Why can’t Frenchy just admit he doesn’t deserve to play? I mean, turning a benching into his IDEA is laughable at best.
By Savannah Guy
August 10, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this
Let McCann play today. He’s touched their second baseman, the third baseman and he’s touched up their pitchers pretty good. The Snakes first baseman and shortstop haven’t been touched.
Mac can go for the cycle.
By McFann ;Ô;
August 10, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this
Sounds good to me
By Lew
August 10, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this
Just heard on XM that Hudson’s wrist is definitely broken and they’re talking 6-8 weeks, which of course, knocks him out for the season. Wonder if that $10 mil per Free Agent contract he was expecting this winter just went out the window. Especially since this is the second time he’s had a serious wrist injury. Not too sure anyone will offer him that substantial a contract not knowing how well he’d come back from the injury.
By stamper
August 10, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this
touched?… as in mentally or physically? either way, can we do away with that phrase entirely?
By Lew
August 10, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this
Jeff321-Dude, just why should you even care what he has to say about the situation? Is it impacting your life one way or another, or did the Guy’s dog maybe leave an unpleasant package on your lawn? You gripe when he plays. You gripe when he sits on the bench. Just exactly who is the clueless, attitudinal one here? Is it Frenchy or you? I repeat-Just why do you even care?
By Teamster
August 10, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this
texasbrave
I agree with your 11:02 AM post wholeheartedly. our lineup is dangerous with infante and prado. Acutally, our lineup is dangerous without Francoeur and KJ.
uga-brave
i don’t think it’s that simple for Jeff to keep his hands up and c** them up and back as he starts his swing. I agree he has to keep his weight back, but I’m beginning to think (actually thought so for quite a while), that his bat speed is too slow to catch up with a ML fastball. that’s why he starts his swing early and can’t lay of f the junk.
That dude is just all messed up in the head. Prima-donna for sure. Did he stop seeing that sports psychologist?
By Bobby's Cox
August 10, 2008 12:28 PM | Link to this
keylargo
Hilarious post at 10:43 last night.
I’m flattered you’ve noticed my blogging patterns.
btw largo, here’s a statement i like, and it didn’t come from me.
Infante/Prado/Blanco - seems like at least one of those guys is always having a good game Stingersplash
here’s another:
And no doubt about working the pitcher with those long at-bats. In retrospect, how much did the Braves miss Infante and Prado early on? A lot. I asked Chipper that today, and he agreed. Looking back now, it’s obvious. DOB
Anyone remember our patience / making the pitchers work discussions early in the year?
By Supes
August 10, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this
The last 2 months, I was hoping the Braves would play at .500 or better. They are still going to miss out on the 2008 Playoffs, but I think you can take a lot of positives and build on for 2009.
Use these last 2 months to play good baseball and carry it into the off-season workouts and next year.
It’s been refreshing to see Chipper and B-Mac both back and in the lineup.
Good game by Jair although he didn’t have his best stuff, he gave the team a chance to win.
Buddy Carlyle continues to pitch well, I hope he figures into the Braves plans for the pen in 2009 in a clearly defined role (long relief…2-3 innings per outing).
Lets hope Hampton continues to get better with each start. I would like to see him go 7-8 innings and keep the D’Backs down to 3 runs or less.
Meanwhile…hope the Braves continue to do their “grind out” at bats, rack up big pitch count numbers on Webb and get him out of there by the 5th or 6th inning.
A sweep of a division leading D’Backs would be huge for the Braves morale and confidence at this point, regardless of where Atlanta finishes in the NL East.
I’m optimistic and hoping that Jeff is riding the pine again, today. Got a tough sinker baller who is RH on the mound, and we know Jeff loves to swing wildly and pull the ball. Or hell can actually freeze over, either way Braves have a secret weapon in Mike Hampton in the lineup to make up for any of Jeff’s shortcomings.
Almost forgot…Would someone on the Braves coaching staff please teach Yunel Escobar how to bunt, how to bunt for a hit, how to bunt for a sacrifice, etc.
By Jeff321
August 10, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this
Dude, just why should you even care what he has to say about the situation?
Because its in the press and I follow the Braves.
By Lew
August 10, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this
Bobby’sCox-Dude, have you noticed Blanco’s extended AB’s recently? Kid’s getting a whole lot of 12-13 pitch monsters, just like Infante did last night. Leading off the Brewers’ game last week, Blanco’s 13 pitch marathon set the tone for the game-our best against Sheets in quite some time.
By KC
August 10, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this
Brian McCann likely won’t get as many total ABs this year as most everyday players (due to off days and a some games he’s missed), but just to put Brain McCann’s season in perspective…
Here are McCann’s 08 numbers projected over 550 at-bats:
.305, 31 HR, 103 RBI, 45 doubles
Not bad.
I can’t tell you how glad I am that we locked this guy up for a while.
By Lew
August 10, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this
Jeff321-No Dude, I’m thinking yourcontinuing obsession and the consequent personalizing of Frenchy’s poor performance goes much deeper into your wounded psyche than just “because it’s in the press.”
All you’ve done is to constantly rant against the kid all week long. You’ve really had nothing very insightful to say about either Jeff OR the subject of his poor performance. All you’ve really done is vent some nebulous frustrations and not much else. You’ve complained when he plays and when he sits the game out. You’ve called his dedication, drive desire and mental accuity into question all because he hasn’t played as well as he has in the past. I’ve got to wonder, could you or any of his other detractors stand up to even a fraction of the scrutiny he has over the past few months? What would y’all’s reactions to some of the same trash be?
Even UGABrave reserves his anti Francoeur rants until the wee hours of the morning. Dude, maybe you and the rest of the “We Hate Francoeur” contingent might try the same thing and at 3 in the morning, Y’all could maybe hold a seance or posssibly just an anti Frenchy Circle Jerk and spare those of us who are really getting tired of hearing the same old meaningless drivel and would like to talk some real baseball instead.
By Bobby's Cox
August 10, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this
Lew
Ya i’ve noticed. When the lineup 1-8 is more patient as a team, the results have been devastating for opposing starters and their teams.
Gotta tell you, I wasn’t that impressed with Blanco early on, but i’m more and more a fan everyday. Now if he could only run the bases like McCann…
By Lew
August 10, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this
Bobby’s Cox-Me too, Dude. At the beginning of the season, I thought Blanco was just another of Coach’s “Whatever” players, but as time has progressed, he becomes more and more impressive. I still don’t think he’s as great a fielder as many have claimed, but he’s not bad there, either. I would give him another shot at leadoff next year (and maybe send him to see Daddy McCann this winter).
By David O'Brien
August 10, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this
Savannah Guy, Bonzo’s taken. That’d be something akin to sacrilege, taking the late, mighty drummer John Bonham’s nickname.
By David O'Brien
August 10, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this
N Nine, anyone should be able to copy and paste without dropping key words from a sentence of paragraphy. Re-read my reply to Savannah Guy regarding the Gonzalez nickname. If you really are confused after re-reading (as you said above), then there’s not much hope, I’m afraid.
By N Nine
August 10, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this
wow LEW what an attack! i never wanna p** you off
By McFann ;Ô;
August 10, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this
KC—
Those would be great numbers! Over 100 RBI? Bring it! (Though I’d like to see him hit 3 more doubles than that…to break the single-season record for doubles by a catcher.)
I can’t tell you how glad I am that we locked this guy up for a while.
Me neither! That’s prob’ly the smartest move the Braves have made in the past…I don’t know …5 years?
And 13.48% of the people polled said the move was “OK, but the Braves have gotten burned like this before.” Sheesh…
B’s C—
Jurrjens said “the fast guys should take some tips from [McCann].”
DOB—
I love the way you worded this:
[Brian McCann] made his presence felt in several ways, going 2-for-5 with a home run and four RBIs and scattering bodies with his eventful journey around the bases in the sixth inning.
Good stuff!
By NCBravesFan
August 10, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this
For those of you dreaming of an improbable Braves sprint back into the division race, the time is nigh. Florida, Philly and the Mets do not play one another again until August 26th.
We’ve got the Mets in Shea August 19-21 and outside of that, none of the top four teams play one another until late this month.
The Braves have the Cards and the Cubs in this stretch, so any ground gained won’t come cheaply. And you’d have to think the Braves need to be within 5 games and in third place by August 26th if they have any shot at all heading in to September.
By Bobby's Cox
August 10, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this
Totally agree Lew.
The only thing I don’t like about Blanco is his throwing arm. But i’ve been more than happy with the kid, especially after knowing he wasn’t going to be another Charles Thomas or Willie Harris (the one who doesn’t play against the braves).
By Jeff321
August 10, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this
Lew — You asked a question and I answered it. Now, if my answer wasn’t satisfactory, you could always ignore my posts, or pound sand. Btw, feel free to query me in the future.
By Supes
August 10, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this
Lew
How about you back off and stop trying to dominate this blog by telling other posters how to behave in expressing their opinions? Personally, I find it kind of sad that it ticks you off so much what other Braves fans think these days.
Add your 2 cents and move on, no need for repeated banther.
By Supes
August 10, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this
NCBravesFan
I think a more realistic goal for this 2008 Braves team would be to try and get to .500 and finish above .500 It does a lot for the mindset and morale of the team if they avoid a losing season.
By RedEyedAndBlueforSkipAndFamily
August 10, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this
I like “Cobra” for Gonzalez. But of course Cobras have a natural enemy - the Mongoose. Just to be on the safe side, we should decide which one of the Braves is going to be nicknamed the “Mongoose.” Definitely wouldn’t want the Cobra to have to face his natural enemy in the opponent’s batters box. Infante’s kinda small, dangerous and quick like a Mongoose. But then I like “The Inferno” too, for Infante - (ala Dante’s Inferno?) I know, I know; it’s a bit of a stretch.
By NCBravesFan
August 10, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this
Supes I agree totally - just making the point that in the next couple of weeks, the Braves have what is most likely to be their last chance of getting back into the race by virtue of the schedules of the teams ahead of them.
And as bad as the Braves have played this year, let’s face it - the three teams ahead of us aren’t exactly mowing down their opponents.
By Savannah Guy
August 10, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this
Savannah Guy, Bonzo’s taken. That’d be something akin to sacrilege, taking the late, mighty drummer John Bonham’s nickname.
David, that’s right. Far be it from me to seriously suggest the amazing Zepp drummer’s nickname. So I’ll turn the Page, water the Plant and try not to Jones for a nickname. Bonzo wasn’t a serious suggestion anyway. It’s hard to come up with a truly original nickname for Gonzales or anyone else, MIB.
Suppose I was attempting to make a point using a bit of gonzo journalism. Whoops, there I go again. Apologies to Hunter… guess Gonzo’s taken too.
By McFann ;Ô;
August 10, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this
Before the game on 7/31/08, Joe Simpson said that he would like to see Sammons get more playing time.
My question to Joe is this: Is that still the case?
Well, I best be goin’ now. Go get the sweep, boys! Put on a good show for Wayne, play McCann, don’t play Francoeur, and all that jazz!
Like, LATER!
By Greg in TN
August 10, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this
Afternoon folks…
Who’s the most mentioned pitcher in the Georgia capitol these days? Of course it would be someone on the current Braves staff whether it be Smoltz, Hudson, Glavine, Jurrjens, Campillo or someone else, but there’s another popular name that keeps coming up. Tommy John.
Pretty wild when the guy only has 12 career appearances in Atlanta (a 5-2 record and a 3.86 ERA and one CG from 1972-1978 as a Dodger). By my unofficial research, Tim Hudson became at least the 10th pitcher on the Braves’ 40-man roster to have TJ surgery (11th player overall if you count Kelly Johnson’s TJ surgery in 2006). More than our fair share for sure, but the Braves certainly aren’t the only team sending hurlers to Birmingham and Dr. Andrews. It underscores to me that lobbing a five ounce sphere 90 miles per hour isn’t natural for a human arm.
Speaking of Mr. John, a member of the Tommy John Class of 2005, Mike Hampton is on the mound today as the lads of Stone Mountain go for the sweep against the desert Snakes in the house that Brian Anderson built.
Hampton’s ERA is dropping and his inning’s pitched per start is rising. However he’s facing Brandon Webb today, who is 3-0 with a 1.85 ERA, 28 Ks and 6 BBs over his last five appearances.
Have to say I’m really pleased seeing these guys aren’t just rolling over and going through the motions. They’re playing good ball right now and they’re showing great patience at the plate. More of that patience is certainly going to be needed today with Webb toeing the mound.
Looks like Orlando Hudson is gone for the rest of the season, which is a shame to see. Too many times guys try to make a play when they should hold onto the ball. Two throwing errors on Juan Cruz and now the Snakes are without their starting second baseman and could have lost their third baseman. Sometimes the best throw made is the one not made.
Do you think Bob Melvin is hoping to see Clint Sammons behind the plate for the Braves today?
By Kentavo
August 10, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this
I’ll buy everyone on the blog a steak dinner at Ruth’s Chris if Frenchy is on the pine today.
By Bobby's Cox
August 10, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this
Ya McFann,
i read that quote yesterday. Pretty funny stuff coming from the youngster.
did you read this one (dumb question i’m sure):
I thought I had it easy and then as soon as I got going, I was like, ‘Oh, no!’” McCann said. “I just had to keep going, and luckily the throw didn’t get there
pretty funny stuff
By keylargo
August 10, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this
Jeff321
I’m not piling on Lew’s post because he certainly doesn’t need my help but he said something that needed saying - again.
When you first got my attention you were relentlessly pounding first Manny Acosta, then you targeted Blaine Boyer. These two young guys that made the team as middle relievers but were thrust into the closer and set up man roles because of injuries to Moylan and Soriano.
They could have done better but day after day you just let them have it and the tone of your post from day one until I said I didn’t appreciate your constant criticism was the same. You (Acosta and Boyer) are no good, you suck, you should be released, etc. etc. etc. etc.
Now you are doing the same thing with Francoeur.
Well, I’m saying it again. I don’t appreciate your attitude. You NEVER have anything positive to say. Just criticism and venom.
If things here and as a Braves fan are so bad as to make you behave like this, I would find something more constructive to do with my time.
By Braveheart
August 10, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this
Isn’t Gonzo kind of an inappropriate name for a pitcher? Kind of made sense when it was applied to Luis in his roid fueled 57 homer season but for a pitcher, I dunno. Seems like Gonzo would be a more appropriate nickname for Chuck James as in that’s gone, gone, gone and he’s gone, gone, gone to Richmond.
By Ray
August 10, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
Just idle curiosity, really. Just wondering for the sake of wondering: DOB How many games did the Phils make up on the Mets in the last 2 weeks of 2007? Wasn’t it 8 or 9 in 18 or 19 games—something ludicrous like that?
I am not saying I am applying similar statistical optimistical theoretical probability to the Braves—I was just curious.
I wouldn’t do that because, in addition to the Phils, there are 2 other teams in front of us.
…who don’t seem to want the division very much, BUT I DIGRESS!!!!!!
By David O'Brien
August 10, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this
NEW BLOG IS UP (with lineup; some of you won’t be happy)
By Kentavo
August 10, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
Let’s see, I figure with the Braves going for the sweep against the best pitcher in the N.L. not named Sabbathia, that Cox will write-in this lineup:
By Kentavo
August 10, 2008 2:10 PM | Link to this
Let’s see, I figure with the Braves going for the sweep against the best pitcher in the N.L. not named Sabbathia, that Cox will write-in this lineup:
By NCBravesFan
August 10, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this
Ray - here’s a link to daily standings on ESPN.com … if you look above the standings, you’ll see a scroll bar menu that allows you to go day-by-day, and look at last year.
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/standings
Re: my earlier posts about the schedule coming up in the next two weeks and the chance for the Braves to get back in contention … you’d have to say the odds are a lot less than 10% the Braves could actually win the division from their current fourth-place position.
But my point is that if the Braves can make up ground between now and the end of the month (and perhaps pass a team in doing so), those probabilities would be a little better come September. If they don’t make up any significant ground between now and the end of the month, that less than 10% chance will be a lot lower based on the in-division play in September.
By Jeff321
August 10, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this
keylargo you had a pretty good point up until this part, “You NEVER have anything postitive to say. Just criticism and venom.”
Now, I don’t know if you read all my posts or are purposely lying. But, I praise McCann every chance I get.. and he’s not the only one. So, this would be an opportune time for you to correct that fabrication.
By Lew
August 10, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this
Yeah-Sure makes sense to me. I get on someone for personally attacking a player and now I’m personally attacked for saying what was on MY mind. Y’all can pound sand every bit as well as I can. If YOU don’t like what I have to say, the same options apply to you. Y’all are nothing but one trick ponies, to my way of thinking-or is that, in the tradition of Robert the One trick Pony Supreme, a one tick Donkey?
By John1314
March 28, 2009 2:55 PM | Link to this
Very nice site!